How To Use CPT Code 31720

CPT 31720 describes the procedure of catheter aspiration, specifically for the nasotracheal region. This article will cover the official description, the detailed procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31720?

CPT 31720 is a code that represents the catheter aspiration procedure performed in the nasotracheal region. It involves the removal of excess secretions from the patient’s nasopharynx and trachea using a suctioning catheter. This procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider to help clear the airway and improve breathing.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31720 is: ‘Catheter aspiration (separate procedure); nasotracheal.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider inserts a suction catheter through the patient’s nostril and advances it to the trachea.
2. The provider applies intermittent suction while rotating and withdrawing the catheter to remove excess secretions.
3. Once the secretions are removed, the provider discards the catheter.
4. The patient’s vital signs are monitored throughout the procedure to ensure their safety and well-being.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31720 is performed when there is a need to remove excess secretions from the nasotracheal region. This procedure is typically indicated for patients who have difficulty breathing due to the accumulation of secretions in their airway. It is important to note that this procedure should only be performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary skills and training.

5. When to use CPT code 31720

CPT code 31720 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the catheter aspiration procedure in the nasotracheal region. It is important to ensure that this code is not reported separately with a related procedure performed in an anatomically related region. If the provider performs CPT 31720 with an unrelated procedure, modifier 59 may need to be appended to CPT 31720.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31720, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The medical necessity for performing the catheter aspiration procedure
• The specific details of the procedure, including the date and time it was performed
• The patient’s response to the procedure and any complications that may have occurred
• The provider’s signature and credentials

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31720, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed in the nasotracheal region. This code should not be reported separately with a related procedure performed in an anatomically related region. If the provider performs CPT 31720 with an unrelated procedure, modifier 59 may need to be appended to CPT 31720. It is also important to use the appropriate diagnosis code to support the medical necessity of the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 31720 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 healthcare provider performing catheter aspiration in the nasotracheal region to remove excess secretions from a patient with pneumonia.
2. A patient with chronic bronchitis undergoing the catheter aspiration procedure to clear their airway and improve breathing.
3. A healthcare provider performing catheter aspiration in the nasotracheal region to remove secretions from a patient with a tracheostomy tube.
4. A patient with cystic fibrosis undergoing the catheter aspiration procedure to help clear their airway and improve lung function.
5. A healthcare provider performing catheter aspiration in the nasotracheal region to remove secretions from a patient with a compromised immune system.
6. A patient with a severe respiratory infection undergoing the catheter aspiration procedure to alleviate breathing difficulties.
7. A healthcare provider performing catheter aspiration in the nasotracheal region to remove secretions from a patient recovering from a stroke.
8. A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) undergoing the catheter aspiration procedure to improve their breathing and quality of life.
9. A healthcare provider performing catheter aspiration in the nasotracheal region to remove secretions from a patient with a tracheal stenosis.
10. A patient with a foreign body in their airway undergoing the catheter aspiration procedure to remove the obstruction and restore normal breathing.