How To Use CPT Code 63252

CPT 63252 describes the excision or occlusion of an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the spinal cord in the thoracolumbar region. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 63252?

CPT 63252 is used to describe a surgical procedure in which a provider removes or closes off abnormal communications between arteries and veins in the spinal cord. This procedure is specifically performed on AVMs located within, on, or near the spinal cord in the thoracolumbar region. The goal of this procedure is to isolate and eradicate the AVM, resolving functional abnormalities and preventing further progression of the condition.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 63252 is: ‘Laminectomy for excision or occlusion of arteriovenous malformation of spinal cord; thoracolumbar.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision over the thoracolumbar vertebra where the AVM is located.
2. They then dissect through the tissue to reach the fascia, which overlays the spinous processes of the vertebrae.
3. Next, the provider gains access to the spinal cord by dissecting and retracting the soft tissues and muscles.
4. A laminectomy is performed, which involves removing a portion of the thoracolumbar vertebra to expose the spinal cord.
5. Using an operating microscope for visualization, the provider identifies the AVM within the spinal cord.
6. Microsurgical techniques are used to either excise as much of the AVM as possible or surgically ligate it.
7. Once the procedure is complete, the provider sutures the dural tube, layers the various muscle and tissue layers, and closes the incision with sutures or staples.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 63252 is performed on patients with neurological arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the spinal cord in the thoracolumbar region. These AVMs cause functional abnormalities such as lower extremity weakness. The procedure is typically performed by a provider who is experienced in neurosurgery or spinal surgery.

5. When to use CPT code 63252

CPT code 63252 should be used when a provider performs a laminectomy to excise or occlude an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the spinal cord in the thoracolumbar region. It is important to accurately document the location of the AVM and the specific procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 63252, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a neurological arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the spinal cord
• Location of the AVM within the thoracolumbar region
• Details of the laminectomy procedure performed
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 63252, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to accurately document the location of the AVM and the specific procedure performed. CPT code 63252 should not be reported with other codes unless additional procedures were performed during the same session.

8. Historical information

CPT code 63252 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a laminectomy for the excision of an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) located in the thoracolumbar region of the spinal cord.
2. A provider performs a laminectomy to occlude an AVM in the thoracolumbar spine, resolving the patient’s lower extremity weakness.
3. During surgery, a neurosurgeon removes an AVM from the spinal cord in the thoracolumbar region, preventing further progression of the condition.
4. A patient with a neurological AVM in the thoracolumbar spine undergoes a laminectomy to excise the abnormal vessels and restore normal spinal cord function.
5. A provider performs a laminectomy to remove an AVM located within the spinal cord in the thoracolumbar region, alleviating the patient’s symptoms.
6. During a surgical procedure, a neurosurgeon successfully occludes an AVM in the thoracolumbar spine, improving the patient’s neurological function.
7. A patient with an AVM in the thoracolumbar region of the spinal cord undergoes a laminectomy to excise the abnormal vessels and prevent further complications.
8. A provider performs a laminectomy to remove an AVM from the spinal cord in the thoracolumbar region, resulting in improved lower extremity function for the patient.
9. During surgery, a neurosurgeon successfully occludes an AVM in the thoracolumbar spine, resolving the patient’s neurological symptoms.
10. A patient undergoes a laminectomy to excise an AVM located within the spinal cord in the thoracolumbar region, restoring normal spinal cord function.