Summary & Overview
CPT 31575: Flexible Laryngoscopy, Diagnostic Examination
CPT code 31575 represents a diagnostic flexible laryngoscopy — a minimally invasive endoscopic exam of the larynx used to identify structural or functional abnormalities of the voice box. Nationally, this code is an important part of otolaryngology and voice disorder evaluation workflows and influences outpatient ENT service utilization and reimbursement patterns. Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of CPT code 31575, including clinical context for its use, typical sites of service (primarily office and ambulatory outpatient settings), and the role the procedure plays in the diagnostic pathway for patients with voice, airway, or swallowing complaints. The publication summarizes common billing considerations, lists commonly applied modifiers when present in submitted claims, and highlights where data is present or missing. It also provides guidance on what to expect in payer coverage scope at a high level and signals areas where payers commonly require clinical documentation. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable. This resource is aimed at clinicians, billing professionals, and policy analysts seeking a compact national-level reference for CPT code 31575.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 31575 describes a diagnostic flexible laryngoscopy, in which a provider uses a flexible laryngoscope to visually examine the larynx (voice box) to detect abnormalities. The procedure is a diagnostic endoscopic evaluation of the larynx performed to assess voice, airway, swallowing concerns, or suspected lesions.
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Service type: Diagnostic endoscopic examination of the larynx
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Typical site of service: Office or ambulatory outpatient setting (clinic, otolaryngology/ENT office) where flexible endoscopic visualization is performed
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 52-year-old patient presents to an otolaryngology clinic with progressive hoarseness for six weeks, intermittent throat discomfort, and a sensation of a lump when swallowing. The patient has no acute respiratory distress, stable vital signs, and a focused history including smoking exposure and recent upper respiratory infections. The clinician performs a focused head and neck exam, obtains a targeted history of voice use and reflux symptoms, and determines that direct visualization of the larynx is needed. The provider performs a diagnostic flexible laryngoscopy using a transnasal flexible fiberoptic laryngoscope to inspect the nasal passages, pharynx, and larynx, documenting findings such as vocal fold mobility, mucosal lesions, edema, erythema, and secretions. Photodocumentation or video recording may be obtained for the medical record. If biopsies or removal of lesions are required, the visit is converted to an operative encounter with appropriate coding for surgical procedures and anesthesia as applicable. Typical workflow includes pre-procedure consent, topical nasal anesthesia and decongestant, the flexible scope examination in the clinic or ambulatory procedure room, documentation of findings and plan, and patient counseling about results and follow-up.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
25 | Significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service on the same day | Use when a distinct E/M visit is performed and documented on the same day as the flexible laryngoscopy. |