CPT code 31579: Laryngoscopy, flexible or rigid telescopic, with stroboscopy

Enhance your understanding of CPT code 31579 with our comprehensive guide, which includes a list of the code's documentation and billing guidelines.

Use Code

What is the 31579 CPT code?

CPT code 31579, maintained by the American Medical Association, is described as "laryngoscopy, flexible or rigid telescopic, with stroboscopy." It is a procedure code that refers to the use of a telescope and a stroboscopic light to examine the larynx (voice box), and its structures.

Oftentimes, an otolaryngologist or a properly trained and certified speech-language pathologist conducts a functional assessment, also known as the laryngeal examination, to evaluate conditions affecting the vocal cords and larynx, such as voice disorders, nodules, polyps, tumors, etc.

CPT code 31579 documentation requirements

Clinical documentation for the current procedural terminology (CPT) 31579, should include the following key elements:

Reason for the stroboscopy (e.g., chronic hoarseness, voice change)
Instrument used (rigid or flexible laryngoscope)
Description of stroboscopic light settings and capture
Description of the diagnostic procedure
Detailed findings (mucosal wave, symmetry, lesions)
Interpretation and final impression
Plan of care

Do note that the recorded video may be stored but is not required by CPT.

CPT code 31579 billing guidelines

For accurate and efficient medical billing for CPT code 31579, the following guidelines must be followed:

Bill once per session or patient encounter, regardless of the number of passes or views.
Do not report with 31575 (diagnostic laryngoscopy).
Image/video guidance is not separately billable.
Used by ENTs and voice specialists under standard outpatient services.
Must demonstrate medical necessity in documentation to ensure reimbursement.
Applied the appropriate CPT modifiers depending on the specific circumstances.

Other relevant CPT codes

31575: Flexible laryngoscopy, diagnostic
92520: Laryngeal function studies
92507: Treatment of speech, language, voice, communication, and/or auditory processing disorder