How To Use CPT Code 63082

CPT 63082 describes the surgical procedure known as vertebral corpectomy. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 63082?

CPT 63082 is a code used to describe the surgical excision of part or all of a cervical vertebra through an anterior approach. This procedure involves decompressing the spinal cord and/or nerve roots and may be performed in conjunction with other spinal procedures. It is important to note that CPT code 63082 should be used in conjunction with CPT code 63081.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 63082 is: ‘Vertebral corpectomy (vertebral body resection), partial or complete, anterior approach with decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s); cervical, each additional segment (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ It is important to use this code in conjunction with CPT code 63081.

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon performs an anterior approach to access the cervical vertebrae.
2. An incision is made, and the diseased or damaged part of the vertebral bone is excised.
3. The surgeon decompresses the spinal cord and/or nerve roots.
4. The discs above and below the excised vertebrae may be removed.
5. Bolts may be inserted above and below the excised vertebrae for stabilization.
6. A bone graft may be inserted into the vertebral gap.
7. A metal plate may be used to close the vertebral gap and provide additional stability.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 63082 is used for patients who require vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots in the cervical region. This procedure is typically performed to treat conditions such as spinal cord compression, nerve root compression, or other spinal disorders. It is important to note that this code should be used in conjunction with CPT code 63081.

5. When to use CPT code 63082

CPT code 63082 should be used when performing a vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots in the cervical region. It is important to use this code in conjunction with CPT code 63081. This code should not be reported separately for fracture care, as it is typically included in the procedure. However, additional procedures such as arthrodesis or spinal reconstruction may be separately reported.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 63082, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for vertebral corpectomy with decompression
• Specific details of the procedure performed, including the level(s) of the cervical vertebrae involved
• Date of the procedure
• 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 code 63082, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this code. It is important to use this code in conjunction with CPT code 63081. Additionally, be aware of any additional procedures performed during the same surgical session that may be separately reportable. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers as necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT code 63082 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare billing purposes.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the C4-C5 level to treat a compressed nerve caused by a fracture. The surgeon also performs arthrodesis and spinal reconstruction using a bone graft and metal plate.
2. A patient with spinal cord compression undergoes vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the C6-C7 level. No additional procedures are performed.
3. A patient with a spinal tumor undergoes vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the C3-C4 level. The surgeon also performs excision of the intraspinal lesion requiring an additional approach.
4. A patient with degenerative disc disease undergoes vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the C5-C6 level. The surgeon also performs arthrodesis of the cervical spine.
5. A patient with a herniated disc undergoes vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the C2-C3 level. No additional procedures are performed.
6. A patient with spinal stenosis undergoes vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the C7-T1 level. The surgeon also performs arthrodesis and spinal reconstruction using a bone graft and metal plate.
7. A patient with a spinal infection undergoes vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the C5-C6 level. The surgeon also performs excision of the intraspinal lesion requiring an additional approach.
8. A patient with a spinal fracture undergoes vertebral corpectomy with decompression of the spinal cord and nerve roots at the C3-C4 level. No additional procedures are performed.