31605 Emer tracheostomy cthyr mem
Also known as: cricothyrotomy, emergency airway, emergency cricothyrotomy
Emergency tracheostomy performed through the cricothyroid membrane (space between cricoid and thyroid cartilage) for rapid airway access in life-threatening airway emergency.
In Plain Language
emergency breathing hole through neck cartilage
Clinical Context
Performed emergently when standard tracheostomy cannot be rapidly performed; provides temporary airway access during resuscitation but typically converted to standard tracheostomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.29 |
| Total RVU | 6.29 |
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 6.29, this code ranks in the 42nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31605?
CPT 31605 (Emer tracheostomy cthyr mem) is a Surgery code. Emergency tracheostomy performed through the cricothyroid membrane (space between cricoid and thyroid cartilage) for rapid airway access in life-threatening airway emergency.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31605?
The work RVU for CPT 31605 is 6.29. This code is primarily used by Emergency Medicine, Trauma Surgery, Anesthesiology.
When is CPT 31605 used?
Performed emergently when standard tracheostomy cannot be rapidly performed; provides temporary airway access during resuscitation but typically converted to standard tracheostomy.
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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.