31610 Tracheostomy fenest skin flp
Also known as: fenestrated tracheostomy, tracheostomy fenestration, speaking valve placement
Tracheostomy with fenestration (creation of an opening or window in the tracheostomy tube) and skin flap reconstruction to allow air passage through natural airway while maintaining tracheostomy option.
In Plain Language
creating window in breathing tube to allow speaking
Clinical Context
Performed to allow patients with tracheostomy to speak more effectively while maintaining airway protection through the tracheostomy during high aspiration risk situations.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.70 |
| Total RVU | 11.70 |
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 11.70, this code ranks in the 64th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31610?
CPT 31610 (Tracheostomy fenest skin flp) is a Surgery code. Tracheostomy with fenestration (creation of an opening or window in the tracheostomy tube) and skin flap reconstruction to allow air passage through natural airway while maintaining tracheostomy option.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31610?
The work RVU for CPT 31610 is 11.70. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Critical Care, Speech-Language Pathology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31610 used?
Performed to allow patients with tracheostomy to speak more effectively while maintaining airway protection through the tracheostomy during high aspiration risk situations.
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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.