![]() | Clinical UM Guideline |
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Description |
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This document addresses the diagnostic use of fiberoptic flexible laryngoscopy (FFL). This diagnostic procedure utilizes a flexible scope for visualization of the larynx, pharynx and related structures.
Notes:
Clinical Indications |
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Medically Necessary:
For those not adequately visualized by the transoral mirror, diagnostic fiberoptic flexible laryngoscopy is considered medically necessary for any of the following indications:
A repeat diagnostic fiberoptic flexible laryngoscopy is considered medically necessary for any of the following indications:
Not Medically Necessary:
Fiberoptic flexible laryngoscopy is considered not medically necessary when the criteria are not met or when a transoral mirror examination is sufficient.
Coding |
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The following codes for treatments and procedures applicable to this guideline are included below for informational purposes. Inclusion or exclusion of a procedure, diagnosis or device code(s) does not constitute or imply member coverage or provider reimbursement policy. Please refer to the member's contract benefits in effect at the time of service to determine coverage or non-coverage of these services as it applies to an individual member.
CPT | |
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31575 | Laryngoscopy, flexible; diagnostic |
ICD-10 Diagnosis | |
All diagnoses | |
Discussion/General Information |
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FFL provides indirect fiberoptic visualization of the laryngopharyngeal anatomy. The flexible fiberoptic scope can be introduced via the nose or mouth. The procedure can be performed in the office setting and only requires local anesthetic to the site usually delivered by spray.
Examples of symptomatic disorders where FFL is useful for evaluation include but are not limited to:
In a 2017 retrospective review, Joliat and colleagues evaluated the incidence and risk factors of transient/permanent postoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN). The authors noted that 15% of the individuals (11/76) were found to have other ear, nose or throat (ENT) problems such as laryngopharyngeal reflux, laryngitis, sinusitis, or laryngeal edema during the preoperative fiberoptic laryngoscopy. The authors noted these findings were consistent with the other studies and underscored the importance of preoperative evaluation prior to thyroid or parathyroid surgery.
Scientific studies addressing the benefits of diagnostic FFL are limited. In a review, Holsinger and colleagues (2008) discussed the techniques and indications for FFL and stated that: "Visualization of the larynx and pharynx is an essential part of a complete head and neck examination." While some structures of the laryngopharyngeal area of the head and neck cannot be examined by direct visualization, FFL can diagnose a variety of acute/chronic and benign/malignant disorders and is well tolerated.
Definitions |
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Aerodigestive tract: The organs and tissues which comprise the respiratory tract and upper portion of the digestive tract. This includes the lips, mouth, tongue, nose, throat, vocal cords, and part of the esophagus and windpipe.
Dysphagia: Difficulty with swallowing.
Dyspnea: Difficult or labored breathing; shortness of breath.
Larynx: A flexible segment of the respiratory tract connecting the pharynx to the trachea in the neck; also known as the voice box or vocal chords.
Pharynx: A tube extending from the back of the nasal passages and mouth to the esophagus that is the passage through which air passes to the larynx and food to the esophagus
Stridor: A high-pitched, wheezing sound caused by disrupted airflow. Airflow is usually disrupted by a blockage in the larynx (voice box) or trachea (windpipe).
References |
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Peer Reviewed Publications:
Government Agency, Medical Society, and Other Authoritative Publications:
Websites for Additional Information |
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Index |
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Fiberoptic
Laryngeal
Nasopharyngeal
The use of specific product names is illustrative only. It is not intended to be a recommendation of one product over another, and is not intended to represent a complete listing of all products available.
History |
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Status | Date | Action |
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Reviewed | 08/03/2017 | Medical Policy & Technology Assessment Committee (MPTAC) review. Updated formatting in the clinical indications statement. Updated Discussion, Definition, References and Website sections. |
New | 11/03/2016 | MPTAC review. Initial guideline development. |