How To Use CPT Code 31899

CPT 31899 describes a procedure performed on the trachea or bronchi that does not have a specific code. 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 31899?

CPT 31899 can be used to report a trachea and/or bronchi procedure that does not have a specific code available. This code is used when the procedure performed on the trachea or bronchi does not match any of the standard and active CPT codes.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 31899 is: ‘Use 31899 to report a trachea and/or bronchi procedure that does not have a specific code.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider performs a procedure on the trachea or bronchi that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 31899 is used when the procedure performed on the trachea or bronchi does not have a specific code available. It is important to note that this code should only be used when there is no other appropriate code that accurately represents the service provided.

5. When to use CPT code 31899

CPT code 31899 should be used when there is no specific code available to accurately describe the procedure performed on the trachea or bronchi. It is important to follow CPT guidelines and not choose a code that only approximates the service provided. If a Category III code is available for the procedure, it should be reported instead of using an unlisted procedure code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 31899, it is important to provide a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code. Include one or more similar codes and compare the service to those codes to justify the claim amount. Additionally, include the operative notes or other relevant documentation to strengthen the claim and avoid a possible denial.

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 31899, it is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer. Each payer may have different requirements for reporting unlisted procedure codes. It is important to include all necessary documentation and provide a clear explanation of the procedure performed. Payers will consider claims with unlisted procedure codes on a case-by-case basis and determine payment based on the documentation provided.

8. Historical information

CPT 31899 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a trachea procedure that does not have a specific code available.
2. A pulmonologist performs a bronchi procedure that does not match any of the standard CPT codes.
3. An otolaryngologist performs a trachea and bronchi procedure that is not represented by any of the active CPT codes.
4. A thoracic surgeon performs a complex trachea and bronchi procedure that does not have a specific code available.
5. An interventional radiologist performs a minimally invasive trachea procedure that does not match any of the standard CPT codes.
6. A cardiothoracic surgeon performs a specialized bronchi procedure that is not represented by any of the active CPT codes.
7. An otolaryngologist performs a trachea and bronchi procedure on a pediatric patient that does not have a specific code available.
8. A pulmonologist performs a bronchi procedure on a patient with a rare condition that does not match any of the standard CPT codes.
9. A thoracic surgeon performs a complex trachea and bronchi procedure on an elderly patient that is not represented by any of the active CPT codes.
10. An interventional radiologist performs a minimally invasive trachea procedure on a patient with a unique anatomy that does not have a specific code available.