How To Use CPT Code 63277

CPT code 63277 describes the excision of an extradural growth of the spinal cord through a laminectomy procedure in the lumbar 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 63277?

CPT 63277 can be used to describe the excision of an extradural growth of the spinal cord through a laminectomy procedure in the lumbar region. This code is used when a portion of the lumbar vertebra, specifically the lamina, is removed to gain access to the spinal cord and excise the abnormal growth. A biopsy of the lesion may also be taken for testing.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 63277 is: ‘Laminectomy for biopsy/excision of intraspinal neoplasm; extradural, lumbar.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision over the selected lumbar vertebra and removes a portion of the lamina, the posterior arch of the vertebra that covers the spinal canal.
2. The provider retracts the soft tissues and adjacent muscles to gain access to the spinal cord.
3. The provider locates the abnormal growth on the dura, the outer covering of the spinal cord.
4. A biopsy of the spinal lesion is taken and sent to the laboratory for testing.
5. The provider excises the entire lesion and drains any excess fluid or blood using a drain.
6. The wound is closed in layers and covered with a sterile dressing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 63277 is performed when there is an extradural growth of the spinal cord that needs to be excised. The procedure is specifically done in the lumbar region. The patient must meet the criteria for the procedure, and the provider must determine the need for the excision based on the patient’s condition and symptoms.

5. When to use CPT code 63277

CPT code 63277 should be used when a provider performs a laminectomy to excise an extradural growth of the spinal cord in the lumbar region. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 63277, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the excision
• Details of the procedure, including the specific lumbar vertebra involved
• Biopsy of the spinal lesion and any additional testing performed
• Any complications or additional procedures performed during the surgery
• Post-operative care instructions and follow-up plans
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 63277, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to follow the correct coding guidelines and any additional instructions provided by the payer. Report any additional procedures or complications separately, if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 63277 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a laminectomy in the lumbar region to excise an extradural growth of the spinal cord.
2. A provider performs a laminectomy to remove an abnormal growth on the dura in the lumbar region and takes a biopsy for testing.
3. A patient with symptoms of an extradural spinal cord neoplasm undergoes a laminectomy in the lumbar region for excision and biopsy.
4. A provider performs a laminectomy to excise an extradural growth of the spinal cord in the lumbar region and drains any excess fluid or blood.
5. A patient with a confirmed diagnosis of an extradural spinal cord neoplasm undergoes a laminectomy in the lumbar region for excision and biopsy.
6. A provider performs a laminectomy to remove an abnormal growth on the dura in the lumbar region and sends a portion of the lesion for testing.
7. A patient with persistent symptoms of an extradural spinal cord neoplasm undergoes a laminectomy in the lumbar region for excision and biopsy.
8. A provider performs a laminectomy to excise an extradural growth of the spinal cord in the lumbar region and closes the wound in layers.
9. A patient with an identified extradural spinal cord neoplasm undergoes a laminectomy in the lumbar region for excision and biopsy.
10. A provider performs a laminectomy to remove an abnormal growth on the dura in the lumbar region and provides post-operative care instructions to the patient.