31560 Laryngoscop with arytenoidectom
Also known as: arytenoidectomy, partial arytenoid removal, arytenoid resection
Laryngoscopic removal of the arytenoid cartilage (structural cartilage of the larynx associated with vocal cord movement) for treatment of laryngeal pathology, bilateral vocal cord paralysis, or spasticity.
In Plain Language
removing the arytenoid cartilage from voice box
Clinical Context
Performed for bilateral vocal cord paralysis causing airway obstruction, laryngeal spasticity, or to improve voice quality after recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. Increases airway patency.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.31 |
| Total RVU | 5.31 |
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 5.31, this code ranks in the 36th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31560?
CPT 31560 (Laryngoscop with arytenoidectom) is a Surgery code. Laryngoscopic removal of the arytenoid cartilage (structural cartilage of the larynx associated with vocal cord movement) for treatment of laryngeal pathology, bilateral vocal cord paralysis, or spasticity.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31560?
The work RVU for CPT 31560 is 5.31. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Voice and Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery.
When is CPT 31560 used?
Performed for bilateral vocal cord paralysis causing airway obstruction, laryngeal spasticity, or to improve voice quality after recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. Increases airway patency.
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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.