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The CPT® Code 31725 refers to a specific medical procedure known as catheter aspiration of the tracheobronchial area, which is performed as a separate procedure using a fiberscope at the bedside. This procedure is essential for clearing the airways of accumulated substances that may obstruct breathing or lead to further complications. During the procedure, a suction catheter is introduced through the mouth or an existing tracheostomy, allowing for direct access to the trachea and bronchi. The use of a fiberscope provides visual guidance, ensuring that the catheter is accurately positioned within the tracheobronchial tree. This technique is particularly useful for aspirating pulmonary secretions, blood, vomitus, or other foreign materials that may be present in the airways. Moderate sedation may be administered to the patient as needed to facilitate comfort during the procedure. The aspiration process involves the application of intermittent suction to effectively remove the unwanted materials from the trachea and bronchi, thereby improving airway patency and respiratory function.
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The procedure described by CPT® Code 31725 is indicated for patients who present with conditions that necessitate the removal of obstructive materials from the tracheobronchial area. These indications may include:
The procedure for catheter aspiration of the tracheobronchial area using a fiberscope involves several key steps:
Following the catheter aspiration procedure, the patient is monitored for any adverse reactions to sedation and for respiratory status. It is important to observe for signs of airway obstruction or complications such as bleeding or infection. The healthcare provider may provide instructions for post-procedure care, including monitoring for any changes in respiratory function and ensuring that the patient remains stable. Follow-up assessments may be necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of the procedure and to determine if further interventions are required.
| Short Descr | CLEARANCE OF AIRWAYS | Medium Descr | CATH ASPIR TRACHEOBRNCL FIBERSCOPE BEDSIDE SPX | Long Descr | Catheter aspiration (separate procedure); tracheobronchial with fiberscope, bedside | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P1G - Major procedure - Other | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 42 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on respiratory system |
| 51 | Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d). | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. |
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| 2017-01-01 | Changed | Moderate (Conscious) Sedation flag removed. See new Moderate Sedation category. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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