31502 Change of windpipe airway
Also known as: tube change, airway tube change, ET tube change
Replacement or change of an existing endotracheal tube, tracheostomy tube, or other emergency airway device already in place. This procedure involves removing the old tube and inserting a new one.
In Plain Language
breathing tube replacement; replacing the breathing tube
Clinical Context
Performed to replace tubes that are clogged, dislodged, malpositioned, or reaching end of service life. Common in intensive care unit settings during prolonged mechanical ventilation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.63 |
| Total RVU | 0.63 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.63, this code ranks in the 2nd percentile among Surgery codes — 12.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31502?
CPT 31502 (Change of windpipe airway) is a Surgery code. Replacement or change of an existing endotracheal tube, tracheostomy tube, or other emergency airway device already in place. This procedure involves removing the old tube and inserting a new one.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31502?
The work RVU for CPT 31502 is 0.63. This code is primarily used by Critical Care, Anesthesiology, Otolaryngology.
When is CPT 31502 used?
Performed to replace tubes that are clogged, dislodged, malpositioned, or reaching end of service life. Common in intensive care unit settings during prolonged mechanical ventilation.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.