How To Use CPT Code 31730

CPT 31730 describes the procedure of transtracheal (percutaneous) introduction of a needle wire dilator/stent or indwelling tube for oxygen therapy. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 31730?

CPT 31730 involves the administration of oxygen to a patient through a catheter inserted into the windpipe. This procedure is used to treat patients with chronic respiratory problems. The provider places the patient under anesthesia and in the supine position. They then make an incision in the trachea and insert a transtracheal catheter, a flexible plastic tube, to deliver oxygen. The catheter is connected to an oxygen source. This method has replaced the older technique of inserting a needle, guide wire, and stent into the trachea, followed by the insertion of a catheter.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31730 is: ‘Transtracheal (percutaneous) introduction of needle wire dilator/stent or indwelling tube for oxygen therapy.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is placed under anesthesia and in the supine position.
2. The provider makes an incision in the trachea.
3. A transtracheal catheter, a flexible plastic tube, is inserted into the windpipe.
4. The catheter is connected to an oxygen source.
5. The procedure delivers oxygen to the patient through the catheter.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31730 is performed on patients with chronic respiratory problems who require oxygen therapy. The procedure is administered by a healthcare professional and involves the insertion of a transtracheal catheter to deliver oxygen directly to the windpipe. This method is used as an alternative to older techniques and is suitable for patients who can benefit from direct oxygen delivery.

5. When to use CPT code 31730

CPT code 31730 should be used when a healthcare professional performs the transtracheal introduction of a needle wire dilator/stent or indwelling tube for oxygen therapy. This code is appropriate for patients with chronic respiratory problems who require direct oxygen delivery through a transtracheal catheter.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 31730, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for oxygen therapy
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a transtracheal catheter
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any complications or adverse events
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 31730, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and ensure accurate documentation to support the claim. It is important to review any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure compliance.

8. Historical information

CPT code 31730 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) undergoing transtracheal introduction of a needle wire dilator for oxygen therapy.
2. A patient with severe asthma receiving transtracheal introduction of an indwelling tube for oxygen therapy.
3. A patient with cystic fibrosis requiring transtracheal introduction of a stent for oxygen therapy.
4. A patient with bronchiectasis undergoing transtracheal introduction of a needle wire dilator and stent for oxygen therapy.
5. A patient with interstitial lung disease receiving transtracheal introduction of an indwelling tube and stent for oxygen therapy.
6. A patient with pulmonary fibrosis requiring transtracheal introduction of a needle wire dilator and indwelling tube for oxygen therapy.
7. A patient with lung cancer undergoing transtracheal introduction of a stent for oxygen therapy.
8. A patient with respiratory failure receiving transtracheal introduction of an indwelling tube for oxygen therapy.
9. A patient with sleep apnea requiring transtracheal introduction of a needle wire dilator for oxygen therapy.
10. A patient with pulmonary hypertension undergoing transtracheal introduction of an indwelling tube for oxygen therapy.