CPT® Code 31595

Deleted

A therapeutic unilateral section of the recurrent laryngeal nerve is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing spastic dysphonia, a condition characterized by a severe vocal disability where the vocal cords are positioned too closely together, leading to difficulties in voice production. This procedure is classified as a separate procedure, meaning it is performed independently and not as part of a larger surgical intervention. The recurrent laryngeal nerve, which plays a crucial role in controlling the muscles of the larynx, is targeted during this operation. By sectioning the nerve on one side, the procedure induces paralysis of the involved vocal cord, allowing it to retract away from the midline. This retraction helps to alleviate the constriction of the vocal cords, ultimately resulting in improved voice quality for the patient. The surgical approach involves making an incision in the skin of the neck, followed by careful dissection of the soft tissues to access the thyroid gland and the recurrent laryngeal nerve located in the tracheoesophageal groove. The procedure concludes with the division of the nerve and the layered closure of the overlying soft tissues and skin.