How To Use CPT Code 31615

CPT 31615 describes the procedure of tracheobronchoscopy through an established tracheostomy incision. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31615?

CPT 31615 involves performing tracheobronchoscopy through a tracheal opening that was previously created. During this procedure, a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the tracheostomy incision to visualize the airways of the lungs.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31615 is: ‘Tracheobronchoscopy through established tracheostomy incision.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient.
2. Using a scope, the provider inserts it through the tracheal opening and advances it into the trachea.
3. The scope is further advanced to reach the airways of the lungs.
4. The provider examines the mucus lining or covering of the airways, looking for any abnormalities.
5. The scope is then removed, and the patient’s vital signs are observed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31615 is performed when there is an existing tracheostomy incision through which the tracheobronchoscopy is conducted. The procedure is typically done to evaluate the airways for any abnormalities or to obtain samples for further analysis. It is important to note that tracheobronchoscopy is distinct from laryngoscopy and other related procedures.

5. When to use CPT code 31615

CPT code 31615 should be used when a tracheobronchoscopy is performed through an established tracheostomy incision. It is important to ensure that the procedure is accurately documented and meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31615, the following documentation is necessary:

• Confirmation of an existing tracheostomy incision
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a scope and the specific areas examined
• Observation of the patient’s vital signs

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31615, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. Additionally, it is essential to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer or relevant coding authorities. It is also important to consider whether CPT code 31615 should be reported with any other codes based on the specific circumstances of the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31615 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a tracheostomy incision undergoes tracheobronchoscopy to evaluate the presence of any abnormalities in the airways.
2. During a follow-up procedure, a provider performs tracheobronchoscopy through an established tracheostomy incision to obtain samples for further analysis.
3. A patient with a history of lung disease undergoes tracheobronchoscopy through a tracheostomy incision to assess the condition of the airways.
4. Tracheobronchoscopy is performed on a patient with suspected lung cancer through an existing tracheostomy incision to obtain biopsy samples.
5. A provider performs tracheobronchoscopy through a tracheostomy incision to investigate the cause of recurrent respiratory infections in a patient.
6. During a surgical procedure, a provider performs tracheobronchoscopy through an established tracheostomy incision to ensure proper placement of a tracheal tube.
7. A patient with a tracheostomy incision undergoes tracheobronchoscopy to assess the effectiveness of previous interventions for airway management.
8. Tracheobronchoscopy is performed through an established tracheostomy incision to evaluate the healing progress of the airways in a patient recovering from a previous procedure.
9. A provider performs tracheobronchoscopy through a tracheostomy incision to investigate the cause of persistent cough and respiratory symptoms in a patient.
10. During a routine examination, a provider performs tracheobronchoscopy through an established tracheostomy incision to monitor the condition of the patient’s airways.