31590 Reinnervate larynx
Also known as: laryngeal reinnervation, vocal cord reinnervation, recurrent laryngeal nerve reconstruction
Laryngeal reinnervation procedure restoring nerve supply and motor function to the paralyzed larynx through nerve transfer, nerve graft, or anastomosis techniques.
In Plain Language
restoring nerve function to voice box
Clinical Context
Performed for unilateral vocal cord paralysis from recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, restoring vocal cord mobility and voice quality through nerve reconstruction or nerve transfer.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.65 |
| Total RVU | 7.65 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 7.65, this code ranks in the 49th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31590?
CPT 31590 (Reinnervate larynx) is a Surgery code. Laryngeal reinnervation procedure restoring nerve supply and motor function to the paralyzed larynx through nerve transfer, nerve graft, or anastomosis techniques.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31590?
The work RVU for CPT 31590 is 7.65. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Reconstructive Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31590 used?
Performed for unilateral vocal cord paralysis from recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, restoring vocal cord mobility and voice quality through nerve reconstruction or nerve transfer.
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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.