How To Use CPT Code 63081

CPT 63081 describes the surgical procedure known as vertebral corpectomy. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 63081?

CPT 63081 is a code used to describe the surgical excision of part or all of a cervical vertebra, along with decompression of the spinal cord and/or nerve root(s), using an anterior approach. This procedure is typically performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and treat conditions such as compressed nerves or fractures in the neck.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 63081 is: ‘Vertebral corpectomy (vertebral body resection), partial or complete, anterior approach with decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s); cervical, single segment.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon makes an incision and accesses the cervical vertebra through an anterior approach.
2. The diseased or damaged part of the vertebra is excised, relieving pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve root(s).
3. The discs above and below the vertebra are also removed.
4. Bolts are inserted above and below the vertebra to provide stability.
5. A bone graft is inserted into the vertebral gap to promote fusion.
6. A metal plate may be used to close the vertebral gap and provide additional stability.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 63081 is typically performed on patients with conditions such as compressed nerves or fractures in the cervical spine. The procedure is performed using an anterior approach, and decompression of the spinal cord and/or nerve root(s) is involved. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to a single segment of the cervical spine.

5. When to use CPT code 63081

CPT code 63081 should be used when a surgeon performs a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and/or nerve root(s) using an anterior approach on a single segment of the cervical spine. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 63081, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis necessitating the vertebral corpectomy
• Details of the anterior approach used
• Specific segment of the cervical spine involved
• Description of the decompression performed on the spinal cord and/or nerve root(s)
• Documentation of any additional procedures performed, such as arthrodesis or spinal reconstruction
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 63081, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or modifiers that may apply to your particular setting or payer requirements.

8. Historical information

CPT 63081 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It has not undergone any updates or changes since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes in coding guidelines or payer requirements that may affect the use of this code.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C5 level in a patient with a compressed nerve.
2. Using an anterior approach, a surgeon performs a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C6 level in a patient with a fracture in the cervical spine.
3. A patient with a compressed nerve in the neck undergoes a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C4 level.
4. A surgeon performs a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C7 level in a patient with a herniated disc.
5. Using an anterior approach, a surgeon performs a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C3 level in a patient with spinal stenosis.
6. A patient with a compressed nerve in the cervical spine undergoes a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C2 level.
7. A surgeon performs a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C1 level in a patient with a tumor in the neck.
8. Using an anterior approach, a surgeon performs a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C8 level in a patient with a spinal cord injury.
9. A patient with a compressed nerve in the neck undergoes a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C9 level.
10. A surgeon performs a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve root at the C2-C3 level in a patient with degenerative disc disease.