Advanced Search

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Don't Report 31575 With 31579

Published on Sun Aug 05, 2012

Question: May I bill a laryngoscopy and a videostroboscopy for a patient complaining of hoarseness?Ohio SubscriberAnswer: Even though the otolaryngologist may insert one scope and then another, you should bill only for the strobovideolaryngoscopy (31579, Laryngoscopy, flexible or rigid fiberoptic, with stroboscopy). The otolaryngologist performs 31575 (Laryngoscopy, flexible fiberoptic; diagnostic) and 31579 for the same reason and to examine the same area.Both the videostroboscopy and the laryngoscopy examine the larynx. The videostroboscopy also allows the otolaryngologist to assess vocal-cord function. The diagnostic laryngoscopy leads the otolaryngologist to use a flexible or rigid laryngoscope equipped with a light strobe to better visualize the vocal cords. Thus, 31579 is a more extensive procedure than 31575. Since the videostroboscopy includes the initial diagnostic procedure, reporting 31575 in addition to 31579 is redundant.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

View All