How To Use HCPCS Code C9742

HCPCS code C9742 describes a specific medical procedure known as laryngoscopy, flexible fiberoptic, with injection into vocal cord(s), therapeutic, including diagnostic laryngoscopy, if performed. This code is used to identify and bill for this particular procedure, which involves the use of a flexible fiberoptic scope to examine and treat the vocal cords.

1. What is HCPCS C9742?

HCPCS code C9742 is a specific code used in medical coding to identify the procedure of laryngoscopy, flexible fiberoptic, with injection into vocal cord(s), therapeutic, including diagnostic laryngoscopy, if performed. This code is used to accurately document and bill for this particular procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C9742 is “Laryngoscopy, flexible fiberoptic, with injection into vocal cord(s), therapeutic, including diagnostic laryngoscopy, if performed.” The short description for this code is “Enteral supp not otherwise c.”

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing the patient for the procedure, ensuring their comfort and safety.
2. A flexible fiberoptic scope is inserted through the patient’s mouth and guided into the throat.
3. The scope is carefully maneuvered to visualize the vocal cords.
4. If necessary, an injection is administered into the vocal cords for therapeutic purposes.
5. Throughout the procedure, the provider may perform a diagnostic laryngoscopy to assess the condition of the vocal cords.
6. Once the procedure is complete, the scope is carefully removed from the patient’s throat.

4. When to use HCPCS code C9742

HCPCS code C9742 should be used when performing a laryngoscopy procedure with a flexible fiberoptic scope, specifically for therapeutic purposes and including any necessary diagnostic laryngoscopy. This code is used to accurately document and bill for this specific procedure.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C9742, healthcare providers should ensure that the procedure is properly documented in the patient’s medical record. This documentation should include details of the procedure performed, any findings or diagnoses made during the diagnostic laryngoscopy, and any therapeutic interventions administered. Proper documentation is essential for accurate billing and reimbursement.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C9742 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. It has an effective date of January 01, 1996. This code has been terminated as of December 31, 2016. No maintenance actions have been taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

Medicare and other insurance providers may have specific coverage instructions and pricing indicators for HCPCS code C9742. The pricing indicator code for this code is 57, which indicates that it is priced by other carriers. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Providers should refer to the Medicare Carriers Manual Reference Section Number 2130 for further guidance on coverage and reimbursement.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code C9742 should be billed:

1. A patient with a vocal cord injury undergoes a laryngoscopy procedure with therapeutic injection into the vocal cords.
2. A patient with a vocal cord polyp requires a laryngoscopy procedure with therapeutic intervention.
3. A patient with vocal cord nodules undergoes a laryngoscopy procedure with diagnostic assessment and therapeutic treatment.
4. A patient with vocal cord paralysis requires a laryngoscopy procedure with therapeutic injection to improve vocal cord function.
5. A patient with a vocal cord lesion undergoes a laryngoscopy procedure with diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic intervention.