31785 Remove windpipe lesion
Also known as: tracheal lesion removal, tracheal polypectomy
Endoscopic or open surgical removal of a lesion affecting the trachea (windpipe), typically performed to address benign neoplasms, papillomas, granulomas, or other pathological tissue growth.
In Plain Language
windpipe growth removal; tracheal polyp removal
Clinical Context
Used for benign tracheal lesions including recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, hemangiomas, granulomas, or other benign neoplastic growth requiring surgical removal.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.89 |
| Total RVU | 17.89 |
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 17.89, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 31785?
CPT 31785 (Remove windpipe lesion) is a Surgery code. Endoscopic or open surgical removal of a lesion affecting the trachea (windpipe), typically performed to address benign neoplasms, papillomas, granulomas, or other pathological tissue growth.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 31785?
The work RVU for CPT 31785 is 17.89. This code is primarily used by Thoracic Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 31785 used?
Used for benign tracheal lesions including recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, hemangiomas, granulomas, or other benign neoplastic growth requiring surgical removal.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.