31520 Diagnosis laryngoscopy newborn
Also known as: neonatal laryngoscopy, newborn laryngoscopy, pediatric laryngoscopy
Diagnostic laryngoscopic examination performed in newborn infants (under 30 days old) to evaluate the larynx, vocal cords, and upper airway for congenital anomalies, stridor, or respiratory symptoms.
In Plain Language
looking at newborn voice box; examining baby's airway
Clinical Context
Indicated for newborns with stridor, cyanosis, respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, or suspected laryngeal pathology. Requires specialized equipment and expertise for fragile neonatal airway.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.50 |
| Total RVU | 2.50 |
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 2.50, this code ranks in the 17th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31520?
CPT 31520 (Diagnosis laryngoscopy newborn) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic laryngoscopic examination performed in newborn infants (under 30 days old) to evaluate the larynx, vocal cords, and upper airway for congenital anomalies, stridor, or respiratory symptoms.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31520?
The work RVU for CPT 31520 is 2.50. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Pediatric Surgery, Neonatology.
When is CPT 31520 used?
Indicated for newborns with stridor, cyanosis, respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, or suspected laryngeal pathology. Requires specialized equipment and expertise for fragile neonatal airway.
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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.