Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Question: How should I bill for Radiesse injection done in the office? Can we bill 31570 and J3490?

Texas Subscriber

Answer: If your ENT performs a percutaneous injection into the larynx through the skin, use 31599 (Unlisted procedure, larynx). Don't make the mistake of coding 11950-11954 (Subcutaneous injection of filling material [e.g., collagen] ...), as the injection goes beneath the skin.

Normally, plastic surgeons use Radiesse like collagen to fill wrinkles. If the practice supplies the Radiesse and your physician performs the procedure in the office, you can bill for the supply. Some payers will accept the J code; others will require the NDC code on the box or vial of Radiesse. If you use J3490 (Unclassified drugs) -- there's no J code for Radiesse -- note the material name and the NDC number in the comments on your claim to expedite.