31615 Trcheobrnchsc established trachs incision
Also known as: airway clearance procedure, tracheobronchial suctioning, secretion removal
Tracheobronchial secretion removal or aspiration of secretions, with establishment or verification of tracheostomy patency through suctioning and clearance procedures.
In Plain Language
cleaning and clearing the breathing tube
Clinical Context
Performed in tracheostomy patients to maintain airway patency by removing mucus, secretions, and debris. May be therapeutic (clearing blockage) or prophylactic (routine maintenance).
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.79 |
| Total RVU | 1.79 |
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 1.79, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31615?
CPT 31615 (Trcheobrnchsc established trachs incision) is a Surgery code. Tracheobronchial secretion removal or aspiration of secretions, with establishment or verification of tracheostomy patency through suctioning and clearance procedures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31615?
The work RVU for CPT 31615 is 1.79. This code is primarily used by Critical Care, Respiratory Therapy, Otolaryngology.
When is CPT 31615 used?
Performed in tracheostomy patients to maintain airway patency by removing mucus, secretions, and debris. May be therapeutic (clearing blockage) or prophylactic (routine maintenance).
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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.