How To Use CPT Code 0656T

CPT 0656T describes a procedure known as vertebral body tethering, which is used to treat spinal curvature caused by scoliosis. This article will cover the description, official guidelines, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0656T.

1. What is CPT Code 0656T?

CPT 0656T is a code that represents the vertebral body tethering procedure. It involves the placement of screws in the vertebrae and the connection of these screws using a flexible cable. This procedure is typically performed to treat spinal curvature caused by scoliosis. It can be used for up to seven vertebral segments.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0656T is: ‘Vertebral body tethering, anterior; up to 7 vertebral segments.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the side to access the spine.
3. The provider may use a scope for visualization.
4. Screws are inserted at each target vertebral level.
5. A strong cord is used to connect the screws.
6. Tension is applied to the cord to partially straighten the spine.
7. The surgical instruments are removed, and the access sites are closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 0656T is typically performed on children with idiopathic scoliosis who have not reached skeletal maturity. Idiopathic scoliosis refers to an abnormal curvature of the spine with no known cause. This procedure inhibits growth on the tethered side of the spine, potentially correcting idiopathic scoliosis over time. It can be used for up to seven vertebral segments.

5. When to use CPT code 0656T

CPT code 0656T should be used when performing the vertebral body tethering procedure on up to seven vertebral segments. It is important to accurately document the number of segments involved in the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 0656T, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis
• Number of vertebral segments involved in the procedure
• Description of the procedure performed
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 0656T, ensure that the procedure was performed on up to seven vertebral segments. It is important to accurately report the number of segments involved. This code should not be reported with CPT code 0657T, which is used for procedures involving eight or more vertebral segments.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0656T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2021. As of 2022, it is listed under the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs vertebral body tethering on four vertebral segments to correct scoliosis in a 12-year-old patient.
2. Using the anterior approach, a surgeon performs vertebral body tethering on six vertebral segments to treat idiopathic scoliosis in a 15-year-old patient.
3. A specialist performs vertebral body tethering on three vertebral segments to address spinal curvature caused by scoliosis in a 14-year-old patient.
4. A surgeon uses the vertebral body tethering procedure on five vertebral segments to correct scoliosis in a 16-year-old patient.
5. Performing the procedure on seven vertebral segments, a provider successfully treats scoliosis in a 13-year-old patient using vertebral body tethering.
6. A surgeon performs vertebral body tethering on two vertebral segments to address spinal curvature caused by scoliosis in a 17-year-old patient.
7. Using the anterior approach, a specialist performs vertebral body tethering on four vertebral segments to treat idiopathic scoliosis in a 15-year-old patient.
8. A provider performs vertebral body tethering on six vertebral segments to correct scoliosis in a 14-year-old patient.
9. Performing the procedure on three vertebral segments, a surgeon successfully treats scoliosis in a 16-year-old patient using vertebral body tethering.
10. A specialist uses the vertebral body tethering procedure on five vertebral segments to address spinal curvature caused by scoliosis in a 13-year-old patient.