31592 Cricotracheal resection
Also known as: cricotracheal resection, laryngotracheal resection, stenosis resection
Surgical resection of stenotic or damaged cricoid and upper tracheal segments with end-to-end reconstruction, performed for severe laryngotracheal stenosis unresponsive to other treatments.
In Plain Language
removing and reconnecting narrowed airway
Clinical Context
Performed for severe laryngotracheal stenosis (acquired from prolonged intubation, caustic ingestion, trauma, or radiation) when other reconstructive options have failed.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 24.38 |
| Total RVU | 24.38 |
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 24.38, this code ranks in the 88th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31592?
CPT 31592 (Cricotracheal resection) is a Surgery code. Surgical resection of stenotic or damaged cricoid and upper tracheal segments with end-to-end reconstruction, performed for severe laryngotracheal stenosis unresponsive to other treatments.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31592?
The work RVU for CPT 31592 is 24.38. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Thoracic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31592 used?
Performed for severe laryngotracheal stenosis (acquired from prolonged intubation, caustic ingestion, trauma, or radiation) when other reconstructive options have failed.
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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.