How To Use CPT Code 0219T

CPT 0219T describes the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) in the cervical vertebrae, including imaging and placement of bone graft(s) or synthetic device(s) at a single level. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 0219T?

CPT 0219T can be used to describe the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) in the cervical vertebrae. This procedure involves the use of imaging and the placement of bone graft(s) or synthetic device(s) at a single level. It is performed to expand and stabilize the facet joint space, reducing pain caused by degenerative changes or trauma in the cervical vertebrae region.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0219T is the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s), unilateral or bilateral, including imaging and placement of bone graft(s) or synthetic device(s), at a single level in the cervical vertebrae.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the cervical region of the vertebral column.
2. They then extend the incision down to the fascia and muscle, exposing the bone.
3. A synthetic spacer or an allograft, typically made from the bone of the femur or tibia, is placed into the facet joint at a single level of the cervical vertebra.
4. The procedure is performed under fluoroscopic guidance or other imaging technique to ensure accurate placement.
5. After the implant is in place, the provider controls any bleeding and closes the wound in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0219T is performed on patients with degenerative changes or trauma in the cervical vertebrae region. The procedure requires the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level. The use of imaging and the placement of bone graft(s) or synthetic device(s) are also necessary for this code to be applicable.

5. When to use CPT code 0219T

CPT code 0219T should be used when a provider performs the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level in the cervical vertebrae. This code is appropriate for cases involving degenerative changes or trauma in the cervical region that require the expansion and stabilization of the facet joint space. It is important to ensure that the procedure includes imaging and the placement of bone graft(s) or synthetic device(s) to accurately report this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0219T, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the need for the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s)
• Details of the imaging performed and the specific bone graft(s) or synthetic device(s) used
• Date of the procedure
• Specific level of the cervical vertebrae where the implant(s) were placed
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0219T, ensure that the procedure involves the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level in the cervical vertebrae. It is important to include the necessary imaging and the placement of bone graft(s) or synthetic device(s) to accurately report this code. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from insurance providers regarding the use of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0219T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2011. It was initially included in the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare, but was later removed in 2021. However, as of 2022, it has been added back to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level in the cervical vertebrae using imaging and bone graft(s) for a patient with degenerative changes in the cervical region.
2. During a surgical procedure, a provider utilizes fluoroscopic guidance to place a synthetic device into the facet joint of the cervical vertebrae to stabilize the joint space and alleviate pain caused by trauma.
3. A patient with degenerative changes in the cervical vertebrae undergoes a procedure where a provider implants a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level, using an allograft and imaging to ensure accurate placement.
4. For a patient with severe degenerative changes in the cervical region, a provider performs the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level using a synthetic spacer and imaging guidance.
5. A provider performs the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level in the cervical vertebrae, utilizing bone graft(s) and fluoroscopic guidance, to address pain and instability caused by trauma.
6. During a surgical procedure, a provider places a synthetic device into the facet joint of the cervical vertebrae to stabilize the joint space and improve function in a patient with degenerative changes.
7. A patient with trauma in the cervical region undergoes a procedure where a provider implants a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level, using an allograft and imaging to ensure proper placement and stability.
8. For a patient with degenerative changes in the cervical vertebrae, a provider performs the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level using a synthetic spacer and fluoroscopic guidance to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
9. A provider performs the placement of a posterior intrafacet implant(s) at a single level in the cervical vertebrae, utilizing bone graft(s) and imaging guidance, to address pain and instability caused by degenerative changes.
10. During a surgical procedure, a provider places a synthetic device into the facet joint of the cervical vertebrae to stabilize the joint space and improve function in a patient with trauma.