31600 Planned tracheostomy
Also known as: tracheostomy, tracheal stoma, planned trache
Planned tracheostomy in a patient age 2 years or older, creating a permanent or semi-permanent opening into the trachea below the larynx for long-term airway management.
In Plain Language
breathing hole in neck; creating opening in windpipe
Clinical Context
Performed electively for patients requiring long-term mechanical ventilation, severe airway obstruction, recurrent aspiration, or inability to protect airway (stroke, neuromuscular disease).
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.42 |
| Total RVU | 5.42 |
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 5.42, 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 31600?
CPT 31600 (Planned tracheostomy) is a Surgery code. Planned tracheostomy in a patient age 2 years or older, creating a permanent or semi-permanent opening into the trachea below the larynx for long-term airway management.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31600?
The work RVU for CPT 31600 is 5.42. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Critical Care, Anesthesiology.
When is CPT 31600 used?
Performed electively for patients requiring long-term mechanical ventilation, severe airway obstruction, recurrent aspiration, or inability to protect airway (stroke, neuromuscular disease).
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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.