Summary & Overview
CPT 31370: Partial Laryngectomy, Horizontal Approach
CPT code 31370 denotes a partial laryngectomy performed via a horizontal approach to remove part of the larynx. This surgical code is relevant nationally for otolaryngology and head-and-neck surgery billing, representing procedures intended to treat localized laryngeal disease while attempting to preserve voice and airway function. Proper coding of 31370 affects hospital and surgical facility claims, utilization tracking, and clinical documentation standards.
Key payers in the national analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of how 31370 is classified clinically, common settings where the service is delivered, and the types of documentation elements typically associated with operative laryngeal procedures. The publication outlines benchmarks for coding and billing practices, summarizes relevant policy or coverage considerations where available, and provides clinical context to support accurate claim submission.
The report is intended for revenue cycle professionals, clinical coders, otolaryngology clinicians, and policy analysts seeking concise guidance on the clinical meaning, billing implications, and payer landscape for CPT code 31370. Data not available in the input will be noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 31370 describes a surgical procedure in which the provider removes part of the larynx (voice box) using a horizontal approach. This procedure is a form of partial laryngectomy performed to excise diseased or damaged laryngeal tissue while preserving as much normal structure and function as possible.
Service Type: Partial laryngectomy (horizontal approach)
Typical Site of Service: Hospital operating room or ambulatory surgical center where otolaryngologic head and neck surgeries are performed.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is a 62-year-old with progressive hoarseness, airway compromise, or a laryngeal tumor diagnosed on laryngoscopy and imaging. The patient presents to an otolaryngology-head & neck surgery clinic after biopsy confirms malignancy or an aggressive benign lesion involving the supraglottic or glottic larynx. Preoperative workup includes flexible nasolaryngoscopy, cross-sectional imaging (CT or MRI) to stage lesion extent, pulmonary evaluation, and anesthesiology assessment. Under general anesthesia in an operating room, the surgeon performs a horizontal partial laryngectomy via an external neck approach to remove part of the larynx while preserving airway and swallowing when feasible. Intraoperative tasks include direct laryngoscopy, tumor resection through a horizontal neck incision, hemostasis, possible reconstruction of the laryngeal framework, and placement of temporary tracheostomy if indicated. Postoperative care occurs in a monitored setting with airway observation, speech and swallow evaluation, potential feeding tube placement, and coordination of adjuvant therapy (radiation or chemotherapy) if pathology indicates. Typical sites of service are inpatient hospital operating room and post-anesthesia care unit; ambulatory surgical center use is uncommon for this extent of resection.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
22 | Increased procedural services | Use when work or complexity substantially exceeds typical for the procedure (document rationale). |