31529 Laryngoscopy and dilation
Also known as: laryngeal dilation with fixation, dilation with spacer, laryngeal stenting
Laryngoscopic dilation and internal fixation or placement of spacer material within a narrowed larynx to maintain airway patency and prevent restenosis following dilation.
In Plain Language
widening and bracing the voice box
Clinical Context
Used for laryngeal stenosis with placement of temporary spacers or fixation devices to maintain airway patency while tissue remodeling occurs during healing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.61 |
| Total RVU | 2.61 |
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 2.61, 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 31529?
CPT 31529 (Laryngoscopy and dilation) is a Surgery code. Laryngoscopic dilation and internal fixation or placement of spacer material within a narrowed larynx to maintain airway patency and prevent restenosis following dilation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31529?
The work RVU for CPT 31529 is 2.61. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Pediatric Surgery.
When is CPT 31529 used?
Used for laryngeal stenosis with placement of temporary spacers or fixation devices to maintain airway patency while tissue remodeling occurs during healing.
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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.