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The procedure described by CPT® Code 31512 refers to an indirect laryngoscopy that includes the removal of a lesion. In this procedure, the physician conducts a thorough examination of the patient's larynx, which is the area of the throat that houses the vocal cords. The patient is typically seated comfortably in a chair and is instructed to extend their tongue. This positioning allows the physician to gain better access to the throat. The physician utilizes a small round mirror, which is strategically placed at the back of the throat, and illuminates the area with a light source. Additionally, the physician may wear a head mirror that aids in reflecting light to enhance visibility during the examination. During the indirect laryngoscopy, the physician inspects the vocal cords, tongue, and the upper part of the throat for any abnormalities, signs of disease, or injuries. To facilitate a clearer view of the vocal cords, the patient may be asked to produce a high-pitched 'eee' sound. This sound helps to open up the vocal cords, making them more visible for examination. The procedure is distinct from other related codes, such as CPT® 31510, which involves a biopsy, and CPT® 31511, which pertains to the removal of a foreign body. In the case of CPT® 31512, the focus is on identifying and completely excising a lesion that has been detected during the laryngoscopic examination.
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The procedure indicated by CPT® Code 31512 is performed for various reasons related to the examination and treatment of lesions in the laryngeal area. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:
The procedure for CPT® Code 31512 involves several key steps that ensure a thorough examination and removal of the lesion. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the completion of the procedure, the patient may be monitored for any immediate complications or adverse reactions. Post-procedure care typically includes instructions on how to care for the throat area, potential dietary modifications, and signs of complications to watch for, such as excessive bleeding or difficulty breathing. The physician may schedule a follow-up appointment to assess the site of the lesion removal and discuss any further treatment or pathology results if a biopsy was performed. It is essential for the patient to adhere to the post-procedure guidelines provided by the physician to ensure optimal recovery.
| Short Descr | REMOVAL OF LARYNX LESION | Medium Descr | LARYNGOSCOPY INDIRECT W/REMOVAL LESION | Long Descr | Laryngoscopy, indirect; with removal of lesion | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 3 - Special payment adjustment rules for multiple endoscopic 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) | 0 - 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. | Endoscopic Base Code | 31505 Laryngoscopy, indirect; diagnostic (separate procedure) | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC | ASC Payment Indicator | Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight. | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P8H - Endoscopy - laryngoscopy | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 41 - Other non-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. | XS | Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure |
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| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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