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The procedure described by CPT® Code 31578 involves a flexible laryngoscopy that is specifically performed for the removal of lesions in the larynx or vocal cords. These lesions may include conditions such as granulomas and polyps, which can affect the function of the vocal cords and potentially lead to voice changes or other complications. The use of a flexible laryngoscope allows for a minimally invasive approach, providing the physician with the ability to visualize the larynx and surrounding structures in detail. During the procedure, a topical anesthetic is applied to ensure patient comfort, which is crucial given the sensitive nature of the areas being treated. The flexible laryngoscope is introduced through the nasal cavity, allowing for direct access to the larynx. Once the lesions are visualized, a specialized micro cutting or extraction device is utilized to excise the lesions without the use of laser technology. This method is particularly beneficial for patients who may not be candidates for laser procedures or for those requiring a more conservative approach to lesion removal.
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The flexible laryngoscopy with removal of lesion(s) is indicated for patients presenting with specific conditions affecting the larynx or vocal cords. These indications may include:
The procedure for flexible laryngoscopy with removal of lesion(s) involves several key steps that ensure effective visualization and excision of the targeted lesions. The steps are as follows:
After the completion of the procedure, patients may be monitored for any immediate complications or adverse reactions to the anesthesia. It is important to provide post-procedure care instructions, which may include recommendations for voice rest, hydration, and avoidance of irritants such as smoke or strong odors. Patients should also be advised to report any unusual symptoms, such as excessive bleeding or difficulty breathing, to their healthcare provider. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess healing and to determine if further treatment is necessary.
| Short Descr | LARGSC W/REMOVAL LESION | Medium Descr | LARYNGOSCOPY FLEXIBLE RMVL LESION(S) NON-LASER | Long Descr | Laryngoscopy, flexible; with removal of lesion(s), non-laser | 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 | 31575 Laryngoscopy, flexible; diagnostic | 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). | 58 | Staged or related procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was: (a) planned or anticipated (staged); (b) more extensive than the original procedure; or (c) for therapy following a surgical procedure. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 58 to the staged or related procedure. note: for treatment of a problem that requires a return to the operating/procedure room (eg, unanticipated clinical condition), see modifier 78. | 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. | 79 | Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.) | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician |
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| 2017-01-01 | Changed | Long, Medium and Short descriptions changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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