31766 Carinal reconstruction
Also known as: carinal reconstruction, carinal resection, carina repair
Carinal reconstruction (surgical reconstruction of the carina, the point where the trachea divides into mainstem bronchi) for stenosis, malacia, or malignancy affecting the carinal region.
In Plain Language
repairing the fork where windpipe splits into lungs
Clinical Context
High-complexity procedure for carinal stenosis, malacia, or primary carinal malignancy. Requires cardiothoracic expertise and cardiopulmonary bypass capability.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 30.88 |
| Total RVU | 30.88 |
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 30.88, this code ranks in the 93rd percentile among Surgery codes — 3.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31766?
CPT 31766 (Carinal reconstruction) is a Surgery code. Carinal reconstruction (surgical reconstruction of the carina, the point where the trachea divides into mainstem bronchi) for stenosis, malacia, or malignancy affecting the carinal region.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31766?
The work RVU for CPT 31766 is 30.88. This code is primarily used by Cardiothoracic Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31766 used?
High-complexity procedure for carinal stenosis, malacia, or primary carinal malignancy. Requires cardiothoracic expertise and cardiopulmonary bypass capability.
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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.