How To Use CPT Code 63051

CPT 63051 describes a specific procedure known as cervical laminoplasty with decompression of the spinal cord and reconstruction of the posterior bony elements. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 63051?

CPT 63051 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called cervical laminoplasty. This procedure involves the repair of the cervical lamina and decompression of the spinal cord for two or more vertebral segments. It also includes the reconstruction of the posterior bony elements. During the procedure, an incision is made in the back of the neck, and the cervical vertebrae are carefully manipulated to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. Bone grafts may be used to stabilize the area.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 63051 is: ‘Laminoplasty, cervical, with decompression of the spinal cord, 2 or more vertebral segments; with reconstruction of the posterior bony elements (including the application of bridging bone graft and non-segmental fixation devices [eg, wire, suture, mini-plates], when performed).’ This code should not be reported in conjunction with certain other codes for the same vertebral segment(s).

3. Procedure

1. The procedure begins with the patient under anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the skin at the back of the neck.
3. A groove is created in one side of the cervical vertebrae.
4. The other side of the vertebrae is cut all the way through.
5. The tips of the vertebrae are removed.
6. The back of each vertebrae is opened to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
7. Small wedges made from bone are placed in the open space to stabilize the area.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 63051 is performed on patients who require decompression of the spinal cord and reconstruction of the posterior bony elements in the cervical region. This procedure is typically used for patients with conditions such as spinal stenosis or herniated intervertebral disks. It is important to note that CPT 63051 should not be reported with certain other codes for the same vertebral segment(s).

5. When to use CPT code 63051

CPT code 63051 should be used when a cervical laminoplasty procedure is performed to decompress the spinal cord and reconstruct the posterior bony elements. It is important to ensure that the procedure involves two or more vertebral segments. This code should not be used in conjunction with certain other codes for the same vertebral segment(s).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 63051, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis necessitating the procedure
• Details of the procedure performed, including the number of vertebral segments involved
• Description of the decompression and reconstruction techniques used
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 63051, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. Additionally, this code should not be reported with certain other codes for the same vertebral segment(s). It is recommended to review the specific billing guidelines provided by insurance carriers to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 63051 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2005. There have been a few changes to the code over the years, with the most recent update occurring on January 1, 2014. This code was also added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A patient with spinal stenosis undergoes a cervical laminoplasty with decompression of the spinal cord and reconstruction of the posterior bony elements.
2. A herniated intervertebral disk in the cervical region is treated with a cervical laminoplasty procedure.
3. A patient with degenerative disc disease undergoes a cervical laminoplasty to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
4. A cervical laminoplasty is performed on a patient with spinal cord compression due to trauma.
5. A patient with cervical spondylosis undergoes a cervical laminoplasty to alleviate symptoms and improve spinal cord function.
6. A cervical laminoplasty is performed on a patient with a tumor compressing the spinal cord.
7. A patient with cervical myelopathy undergoes a cervical laminoplasty to decompress the spinal cord and stabilize the affected vertebral segments.
8. A cervical laminoplasty is performed on a patient with congenital spinal cord abnormalities.
9. A patient with rheumatoid arthritis and spinal cord compression undergoes a cervical laminoplasty to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
10. A cervical laminoplasty is performed on a patient with a history of failed conservative treatments for spinal cord compression.