31513 Injection into vocal cord
Also known as: vocal cord injection, voice box injection, augmentation injection
Injection of a therapeutic substance (augmentation material, filler, or medicament) directly into or adjacent to the vocal cords via laryngoscopic visualization to improve voice quality or restore vocal cord function.
In Plain Language
injecting medicine into the voice box; vocal cord filler injection
Clinical Context
Indicated for vocal cord paralysis, presbylarynx (age-related voice changes), vocal cord atrophy, or dysphonia requiring medializing procedures. Common materials include calcium hydroxylapatite, hyaluronic acid, and collagen.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.05 |
| Total RVU | 2.05 |
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 2.05, this code ranks in the 14th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31513?
CPT 31513 (Injection into vocal cord) is a Surgery code. Injection of a therapeutic substance (augmentation material, filler, or medicament) directly into or adjacent to the vocal cords via laryngoscopic visualization to improve voice quality or restore vocal cord function.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31513?
The work RVU for CPT 31513 is 2.05. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Voice and Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery.
When is CPT 31513 used?
Indicated for vocal cord paralysis, presbylarynx (age-related voice changes), vocal cord atrophy, or dysphonia requiring medializing procedures. Common materials include calcium hydroxylapatite, hyaluronic acid, and collagen.
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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.