31540 Laryngoscopy with excision of tumor
Also known as: laryngeal tumor removal, laryngeal cancer resection, laryngeal tumor excision
Laryngoscopic removal of a tumor or malignant lesion from the larynx using direct visualization with a laryngoscope for complete resection and pathologic assessment.
In Plain Language
removing a tumor from voice box; cancer removal from larynx
Clinical Context
Performed for laryngeal malignancies, including squamous cell carcinoma, preserving voice quality when feasible. May be curative for early-stage disease or palliative for advanced disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.02 |
| Total RVU | 4.02 |
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 4.02, this code ranks in the 28th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31540?
CPT 31540 (Laryngoscopy with excision of tumor) is a Surgery code. Laryngoscopic removal of a tumor or malignant lesion from the larynx using direct visualization with a laryngoscope for complete resection and pathologic assessment.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31540?
The work RVU for CPT 31540 is 4.02. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Oncology.
When is CPT 31540 used?
Performed for laryngeal malignancies, including squamous cell carcinoma, preserving voice quality when feasible. May be curative for early-stage disease or palliative for advanced disease.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.