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Pulmonology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Laryngoscopy: Choose Direct Versus Indirect

Published on Fri Apr 01, 2005

Question: What's the difference between indirect and direct laryngoscopy, and how should I code these procedures?


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Answer: Laryngoscopy is a procedure that allows the physician to view the back of the throat, including the "voice box" and vocal cords. The indirect method involves a handheld mirror to view the throat. You report this procedure with 31505 (Laryngoscopy, indirect; diagnostic [separate procedure]).

The direct method involves the use of a fiber-optic scope to view the same structures. The direct method provides better views, and you should look at codes 31520 (Laryngoscopy direct, with or without tracheoscopy; diagnostic, newborn) or 31525 (Laryngoscopy, direct, with or without tracheoscopy; diagnostic, except newborn), depending on the age of the patient.
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