How To Use CPT Code 70371

CPT 70371 describes a radiologic study using cineradiography or video recording for pharyngeal and speech evaluation. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 70371?

CPT 70371 is a code used to describe a radiologic study that utilizes cineradiography or video recording for the evaluation of the pharynx and speech. This procedure involves the presence of a speech pathologist who guides the patient in repeating sounds to assess the function of the mouth and tongue during speech. Fluoroscopy is used to record the movement and interaction of the tongue, palate, and other soft tissues in the mouth. By observing the patient’s speech and the recorded images, healthcare professionals can identify any issues or abnormalities that may be affecting the patient’s ability to speak clearly.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 70371 is a radiologic study using cineradiography or video recording for pharyngeal and speech evaluation. Please note that for laryngeal computed tomography, different codes should be used (70490, 70491, 70492).

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the patient is guided by a speech pathologist to repeat sounds and words to evaluate the function of the mouth and tongue during speech.
2. Fluoroscopy is used to record the movement and interaction of the tongue, palate, and other soft tissues in the mouth.
3. The speech pathologist and physician analyze the recorded images and observe the patient’s speech to identify any abnormalities or issues that may be affecting their ability to speak clearly.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 70371 is typically performed when there is a need to evaluate the pharynx and speech of a patient. This procedure is commonly used when there are concerns about speech clarity or difficulties in swallowing. It is important to have a speech pathologist present during the procedure to guide the patient and interpret the results accurately.

5. When to use CPT code 70371

CPT code 70371 should be used when a radiologic study using cineradiography or video recording is performed to evaluate the pharynx and speech of a patient. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 70371, healthcare professionals must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure and the need for pharyngeal and speech evaluation
• Details of the radiologic study, including the use of cineradiography or video recording
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Observations and findings from the evaluation
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 70371, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description. Healthcare professionals should also be aware of any additional guidelines or requirements set by insurance providers or regulatory bodies. It is important to accurately report the procedure and any associated modifiers, if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 70371 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 history of stroke undergoes a radiologic study using cineradiography to evaluate their pharynx and speech function.
2. A child with suspected speech difficulties undergoes a video recording procedure to assess their mouth and tongue movements during speech.
3. An individual with a cleft palate undergoes a radiologic study using cineradiography to evaluate their speech and identify any abnormalities.
4. A patient with dysphagia undergoes a video recording procedure to assess their swallowing function and identify any issues.
5. A person with a suspected speech disorder undergoes a radiologic study using cineradiography to evaluate their pharynx and speech patterns.
6. A patient with a history of head and neck cancer undergoes a video recording procedure to assess their speech and swallowing function post-treatment.
7. An individual with a suspected tongue tie undergoes a radiologic study using cineradiography to evaluate their tongue movement during speech.
8. A child with developmental delays undergoes a video recording procedure to assess their speech and identify any areas of improvement.
9. A patient with a suspected velopharyngeal insufficiency undergoes a radiologic study using cineradiography to evaluate their speech and identify any issues with the soft palate.
10. An individual with a history of vocal cord paralysis undergoes a video recording procedure to assess their speech and identify any compensatory movements.