Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Question: I need help finding a code for a transoral biopsy of prevertebral mass (deep neck). What CPT® code describes this procedure?

Wyoming Subscriber

Answer: For transoral biopsy of prevertebral mass, you would report 61575 (Transoral approach to skull base, brain stem or upper spinal cord for biopsy, decompression or excision of lesion). This code relates to an open skull base approach, not a needle biopsy.

Revenue: The 2011 Fee Schedule lists a national rate of $2,486.39 for 61575 (73.18 RVUs multiplied by the 2011 conversion factor 33.9764).