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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsC31

C31

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of accessory sinuses

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 C31 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of accessory sinuses.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasms of the accessory sinuses, including the maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses, are rare but can be aggressive and challenging to diagnose. These tumors may arise from the epithelial lining of the sinuses and can present with various symptoms such as nasal obstruction, facial pain, and epistaxis. Imaging studies, particularly CT and MRI, play a crucial role in the diagnosis and staging of these malignancies, allowing for assessment of tumor size, extent of local invasion, and potential metastasis. Surgical intervention is often necessary, with approaches including endoscopic sinus surgery or more extensive resections depending on the tumor's location and stage. Postoperative care and follow-up imaging are essential to monitor for recurrence. Accurate coding for these conditions requires a thorough understanding of the specific type of malignancy, its location, and the treatment provided, as these factors influence both the coding and the management of the patient.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in tumor types and locations within the accessory sinuses
  • Need for precise staging and grading of malignancies
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with benign conditions
  • Complexity of surgical procedures and their documentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor type and location
  • Failure to document imaging studies performed
  • Lack of clarity in surgical procedure descriptions
  • Misclassification of benign versus malignant conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the tumor's location, size, and histological type, as well as imaging and surgical findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of sinonasal tumors, including preoperative evaluation and postoperative follow-up.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and grading of tumors, as this impacts treatment decisions and coding.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive imaging reports detailing findings related to the sinuses, including any signs of malignancy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Interpretation of CT and MRI scans for suspected sinonasal malignancies.

Billing Considerations

Clear communication of imaging findings to assist in accurate coding and treatment planning.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C31 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the malignancy's location, type, and any associated treatments
  • Include details on imaging studies and surgical interventions as necessary

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C31 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

31255CPT Code

Endoscopic sinus surgery

Clinical Scenario

Used for resection of malignant tumors in the sinuses.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report including tumor size, location, and extent of resection.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must ensure accurate coding based on the complexity of the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignant neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C31 provides granularity that was not available in ICD-9, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malignant neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C31 provides granularity that was not available in ICD-9, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C31 provides granularity that was not available in ICD-9, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of malignant neoplasms of the accessory sinuses?

Common symptoms include nasal obstruction, facial pain, epistaxis, and sometimes swelling or deformity of the face. Symptoms can vary based on the specific sinus involved and the extent of the malignancy.

How are malignant neoplasms of the accessory sinuses diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as CT or MRI, and biopsy to confirm the presence of malignancy.

What is the typical treatment approach for these malignancies?

Treatment often involves surgical resection of the tumor, which may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy depending on the tumor type and stage.