31591 Laryngoplasty medialization
Also known as: vocal cord medializing, laryngeal medializing, thyroid ala advancement
Laryngoplasty using medializing techniques such as thyroid ala advancement, implant placement, or vocal cord medializing to correct vocal cord paralysis or inadequate glottic closure.
In Plain Language
moving paralyzed voice box toward center
Clinical Context
Performed for unilateral vocal cord paralysis or atrophy causing dysphonia and aspiration risk. Medializing procedures improve glottic closure and voice quality.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.22 |
| Total RVU | 13.22 |
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 13.22, this code ranks in the 68th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31591?
CPT 31591 (Laryngoplasty medialization) is a Surgery code. Laryngoplasty using medializing techniques such as thyroid ala advancement, implant placement, or vocal cord medializing to correct vocal cord paralysis or inadequate glottic closure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31591?
The work RVU for CPT 31591 is 13.22. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Voice and Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31591 used?
Performed for unilateral vocal cord paralysis or atrophy causing dysphonia and aspiration risk. Medializing procedures improve glottic closure and voice quality.
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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.