31528 Laryngoscopy and dilation
Also known as: laryngeal dilation, stricture dilation, subglottic dilation
Laryngoscopic dilation of a narrowed or stenosed larynx, including the laryngeal inlet, subglottis, or glottis using progressive dilators or balloon dilation techniques.
In Plain Language
widening a narrowed voice box; stretching the airway
Clinical Context
Performed for laryngeal stenosis (acquired or congenital), subglottic stenosis, or laryngeal strictures causing airway obstruction or voice changes. May require serial procedures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.31 |
| Total RVU | 2.31 |
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 2.31, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31528?
CPT 31528 (Laryngoscopy and dilation) is a Surgery code. Laryngoscopic dilation of a narrowed or stenosed larynx, including the laryngeal inlet, subglottis, or glottis using progressive dilators or balloon dilation techniques.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31528?
The work RVU for CPT 31528 is 2.31. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Pediatric Surgery.
When is CPT 31528 used?
Performed for laryngeal stenosis (acquired or congenital), subglottic stenosis, or laryngeal strictures causing airway obstruction or voice changes. May require serial procedures.
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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.