How To Use CPT Code 31631

CPT 31631 describes a specific endoscopy procedure performed on the trachea and bronchi. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31631?

CPT 31631 is a code that represents a particular endoscopy procedure performed on the trachea and bronchi. This procedure involves the use of a bronchoscope, which is a flexible or rigid tube, to visually examine the airways. The provider may also perform other interventions, such as placing stents or performing dilatation, if necessary.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31631 is: ‘Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with placement of tracheal stent(s) (includes tracheal/bronchial dilation as required).’ This code specifically includes the placement of tracheal stents and any necessary dilation of the trachea or bronchus.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by inserting a bronchoscope, either flexible or rigid, through the nose or mouth of the patient.
2. Once the bronchoscope is in position, the provider examines the airways, looking for any abnormalities or narrowing.
3. If a narrowing is identified, the provider may perform tracheal or bronchial dilation to widen the area.
4. If necessary, the provider places one or more tracheal stents in the narrowed area to help maintain an open airway.
5. Fluoroscopic guidance may be used during the procedure to assist the provider in accurately placing the stents.
6. After the procedure is complete, the provider removes the bronchoscope and monitors the patient’s vital signs.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31631 is typically performed on patients with airway diseases or obstructions that require intervention. The procedure may be necessary for conditions such as tracheal stenosis or bronchial strictures. The provider must use a bronchoscope, either flexible or rigid, and may also use fluoroscopic guidance during the procedure. The placement of tracheal stents and any required dilation of the trachea or bronchus are included in this code.

5. When to use CPT code 31631

CPT code 31631 should be used when a provider performs a bronchoscopy procedure that includes the placement of tracheal stents and any necessary dilation of the trachea or bronchus. This code is appropriate for cases where the patient has airway diseases or obstructions that require these interventions. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31631, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the bronchoscopy procedure
• Specific details of the procedure performed, including the use of a flexible or rigid bronchoscope
• Fluoroscopic guidance, if used
• Placement of tracheal stents and any required dilation of the trachea or bronchus
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any complications or additional interventions performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31631, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The provider must have performed a bronchoscopy procedure that included the placement of tracheal stents and any necessary dilation of the trachea or bronchus. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 31631 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been several changes to the code description over the years, including updates to include or exclude certain procedures or interventions.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a bronchoscopy procedure on a patient with tracheal stenosis. The procedure includes the placement of tracheal stents and dilation of the trachea to improve airflow.
2. A patient with bronchial strictures undergoes a bronchoscopy procedure. The provider uses a bronchoscope to examine the airways and performs bronchial dilation and placement of stents to alleviate the narrowing.
3. A provider performs a bronchoscopy procedure on a patient with a tracheal obstruction. The procedure includes the placement of tracheal stents to maintain an open airway.
4. A patient with recurrent tracheal stenosis undergoes a bronchoscopy procedure. The provider performs tracheal dilation and places stents to address the narrowing and prevent further obstructions.
5. A provider performs a bronchoscopy procedure on a patient with bronchial strictures. The procedure includes the placement of bronchial stents and dilation to improve airflow and alleviate symptoms.
6. A patient with tracheal stenosis undergoes a bronchoscopy procedure. The provider uses a bronchoscope to examine the airways and performs tracheal dilation and placement of stents to address the narrowing.
7. A provider performs a bronchoscopy procedure on a patient with a tracheal obstruction. The procedure includes the placement of tracheal stents to maintain an open airway.
8. A patient with recurrent tracheal stenosis undergoes a bronchoscopy procedure. The provider performs tracheal dilation and places stents to address the narrowing and prevent further obstructions.