How To Use CPT Code 63064

CPT 63064 describes a specific procedure used to relieve symptoms caused by spinal cord or nerve root pressure in the thoracic region. 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 63064?

CPT 63064 represents a costovertebral approach with decompression of the spinal cord or nerve root(s) in the thoracic region. This procedure is performed to alleviate symptoms caused by pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, such as a herniated intervertebral disc. The provider uses a specific technique to access the affected area and remove the source of compression.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 63064 is: ‘Costovertebral approach with decompression of spinal cord or nerve root(s) (eg, herniated intervertebral disc), thoracic; single segment.’

3. Procedure

1. To perform CPT 63064, the provider begins by preparing the patient and administering anesthesia.
2. An incision is made a few inches from the thoracic spine, and the provider deepens the incision through the layers of skin, fascia, and muscle.
3. The provider may use a drill or a biting instrument called a rongeur to gain access to the site.
4. The source of compression, such as a herniated disc, is identified and removed.
5. If necessary, a drain may be inserted.
6. The provider then closes the wound in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 63064 is used when a patient requires decompression of the spinal cord or nerve root(s) in the thoracic region. This procedure is typically performed for conditions such as herniated intervertebral discs that cause symptoms due to pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. The costovertebral approach is utilized, which involves accessing the area where the ribs and spine meet.

5. When to use CPT code 63064

CPT code 63064 should be used when a provider performs a costovertebral approach with decompression of the spinal cord or nerve root(s) in the thoracic region for a single segment. It is important to accurately document the specific procedure performed and ensure that it aligns with the official description of CPT 63064.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 63064, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for decompression of the spinal cord or nerve root(s)
• Details of the costovertebral approach used
• Date of the procedure
• Specific segment of the thoracic spine targeted
• Procedure details, including any instruments or tools used
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 63064, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the official description and documentation requirements. It is important to accurately report the specific segment of the thoracic spine targeted. Additionally, be aware of any coding guidelines or restrictions related to reporting CPT 63064 with other codes, such as spine osteotomy codes or instrumentation codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 63064 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. Since its addition, there have been a few changes to the code description, including updates to the terminology used.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a herniated intervertebral disc in the thoracic region undergoes a costovertebral approach with decompression of the spinal cord during a single-segment procedure.
2. A provider performs CPT 63064 to relieve symptoms caused by nerve root compression in the thoracic spine of a patient with spinal stenosis.
3. During a surgical procedure, a provider utilizes a costovertebral approach to decompress the spinal cord in the thoracic region of a patient with a tumor.
4. A patient with a thoracic disc herniation undergoes a decompression procedure using the costovertebral approach to alleviate symptoms.
5. A provider performs CPT 63064 to relieve pressure on the spinal cord caused by a thoracic disc herniation in a patient with radiculopathy.
6. During a surgical intervention, a provider utilizes CPT 63064 to decompress the spinal cord in the thoracic region of a patient with spinal cord injury.
7. A patient with thoracic disc degeneration undergoes a costovertebral approach with decompression of the spinal cord to alleviate symptoms.
8. A provider performs CPT 63064 to relieve nerve root compression in the thoracic spine of a patient with thoracic outlet syndrome.
9. During a surgical procedure, a provider utilizes a costovertebral approach to decompress the spinal cord in the thoracic region of a patient with a spinal cord tumor.
10. A patient with thoracic disc herniation undergoes a decompression procedure using the costovertebral approach to alleviate symptoms and improve mobility.