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CPT®
31715

CPT® Code 31715
Deleted

Code deleted, see 31899

Official Description

Transtracheal injection for bronchography

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A transtracheal injection for bronchography is a specialized medical procedure utilized to visualize the lower respiratory tract, which includes critical structures such as the larynx, trachea, and bronchi. This procedure is essential for diagnosing various conditions affecting these areas. During the process, a local anesthetic is administered, typically by spraying it in the back of the throat to minimize discomfort for the patient. Following this, a catheter is carefully advanced through either the nose or mouth, navigating through the throat and into the trachea and bronchus. As the catheter progresses, contrast media is injected, which coats the interior walls of the lower respiratory tract. This contrast agent is crucial as it enhances the visibility of the anatomical structures during radiographic examination. The use of radiographs, which are obtained separately throughout the procedure, allows the physician to assess the anatomy in detail, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The transtracheal injection for bronchography is indicated for various clinical scenarios where detailed visualization of the lower respiratory tract is necessary. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:

  • Evaluation of Airway Obstruction This procedure is performed to identify and assess any obstructions within the airway that may be causing respiratory difficulties.
  • Investigation of Bronchial Abnormalities It is utilized to examine structural abnormalities in the bronchi, such as strictures, tumors, or congenital malformations.
  • Assessment of Inflammatory Conditions The procedure can help in evaluating inflammatory diseases affecting the lower respiratory tract, including bronchitis or bronchiectasis.
  • Preoperative Planning It may be indicated for preoperative assessment in patients undergoing surgical interventions involving the respiratory system.

2. Procedure

The transtracheal injection for bronchography involves several critical procedural steps that ensure the effective visualization of the lower respiratory tract. Each step is designed to facilitate the safe and accurate delivery of contrast media for radiographic examination.

  • Step 1: Anesthesia Administration The procedure begins with the administration of a local anesthetic, which is sprayed in the back of the throat. This step is crucial for minimizing discomfort and ensuring that the patient remains as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure.
  • Step 2: Catheter Insertion Following the anesthesia, a catheter is carefully advanced through the patient's nose or mouth. The clinician guides the catheter through the throat and into the trachea and bronchus, ensuring that it is positioned correctly for the injection of contrast media.
  • Step 3: Contrast Injection As the catheter is advanced, contrast media is injected. This contrast agent is essential as it coats the lining of the interior walls of the lower respiratory tract, enhancing the visibility of these structures during subsequent imaging.
  • Step 4: Radiographic Imaging Throughout the procedure, separate radiographs are obtained. These images are critical for allowing the physician to examine the anatomy of the lower respiratory tract in detail, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

3. Post-Procedure

After the transtracheal injection for bronchography, patients may require monitoring for any immediate adverse reactions to the procedure or the contrast media. It is important to observe for signs of respiratory distress or complications related to the catheter insertion. Patients are typically advised to rest and may be instructed to avoid strenuous activities for a short period following the procedure. Additionally, any specific post-procedure care instructions provided by the physician should be followed to ensure optimal recovery and outcomes.
Short Descr INJECTION FOR BRONCHUS X-RAY
Medium Descr TRANSTRACHEAL INJECTION BRONCHOGRAPHY
Long Descr Transtracheal injection for bronchography
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) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
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.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Discontinued Code
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 226 - Other diagnostic radiology and related techniques
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 31899
2013-01-01 Changed Short and Medium Descriptors changed.
1990-01-01 Added Code added
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