Otolaryngology Coding Alert
Reader Question:
31540 Works for Larygoscopy With Papilloma Ablation
Published on Mon Aug 19, 2013
Question: How should I code for direct laryngoscopy with laser ablation of a papilloma?
Answer: The correct code is 31540 (Laryngoscopy, direct, operative, with excision of tumor and/or stripping of vocal cords or epiglottis).
Tip: Don’t let the surgeon’s notation of “laser” throw you off – that’s just referring to the technique and/or instrument used. You’ll still code the procedure the same, whatever technique the physician uses.
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