31525 Diagnosis laryngoscopy excl nb
Also known as: diagnostic laryngoscopy, adult laryngoscopy, laryngeal evaluation
Diagnostic laryngoscopic examination of the larynx in patients excluding newborns (all ages except infants under 30 days) to evaluate vocal cords, laryngeal structures, and upper airway.
In Plain Language
examining the voice box; larynx visualization
Clinical Context
Used to evaluate hoarseness, voice loss, stridor, cough, dysphagia, or suspected laryngeal lesions in pediatric and adult patients. Often first diagnostic step in laryngeal pathology workup.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.56 |
| Total RVU | 2.56 |
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 2.56, this code ranks in the 18th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31525?
CPT 31525 (Diagnosis laryngoscopy excl nb) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic laryngoscopic examination of the larynx in patients excluding newborns (all ages except infants under 30 days) to evaluate vocal cords, laryngeal structures, and upper airway.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31525?
The work RVU for CPT 31525 is 2.56. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, General Surgery.
When is CPT 31525 used?
Used to evaluate hoarseness, voice loss, stridor, cough, dysphagia, or suspected laryngeal lesions in pediatric and adult patients. Often first diagnostic step in laryngeal pathology workup.
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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.