How To Use CPT Code 63300

CPT 63300 describes the excision of an intraspinal lesion in the cervical spine using a partial or complete vertebral corpectomy. 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 63300?

CPT 63300 is used to describe the surgical procedure of removing an intraspinal lesion in the cervical spine by performing a partial or complete vertebral corpectomy. This involves the excision of the main body of a single vertebra to eliminate the extradural lesion within the cervical spine.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 63300 is: ‘Vertebral corpectomy (vertebral body resection), partial or complete, for excision of intraspinal lesion, single segment; extradural, cervical.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by making an incision and gaining access to the cervical spine.
2. The diseased or damaged part of the vertebral bone is then removed, relieving pressure on the spinal cord.
3. The discs above and below the vertebrae are also removed.
4. Bolts are inserted above and below the vertebrae for stability.
5. A bone graft is placed in the vertebral gap to promote fusion.
6. A metal plate may be inserted to further support the spine.
7. The incision is closed, completing the procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 63300 is performed on patients with an intraspinal lesion in the cervical spine that requires surgical excision. The procedure is typically indicated for patients with extradural lesions. It is important to note that this procedure is specific to the cervical spine and does not apply to lesions in other areas of the spine.

5. When to use CPT code 63300

CPT code 63300 should be used when a surgeon performs a partial or complete vertebral corpectomy to remove an intraspinal lesion in the cervical spine. It is important to accurately document the location of the lesion and the specific vertebral segment involved to ensure proper coding.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 63300, the following documentation is required:

• Diagnosis of the intraspinal lesion and the medical necessity for the procedure
• Details of the vertebral corpectomy, including the specific vertebral segment and whether it was a partial or complete excision
• Description of the intraspinal lesion and its location
• Procedure notes, including the surgical approach and any additional procedures performed
• Documentation of any bone grafts, instrumentation, or spinal reconstruction performed
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 63300, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a partial or complete vertebral corpectomy for the excision of an intraspinal lesion in the cervical spine. It is important to accurately document the specific details of the procedure and any additional services provided, such as bone grafts or spinal reconstruction. It is also essential to follow any applicable payer guidelines and modifiers for proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 63300 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has not undergone any updates or changes since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a partial vertebral corpectomy on a patient with an extradural lesion in the cervical spine.
2. A patient undergoes a complete vertebral corpectomy for the excision of an intraspinal lesion in the cervical spine.
3. A surgeon performs a partial vertebral corpectomy on a patient with an extradural lesion in the cervical spine, followed by spinal reconstruction using bone grafts and instrumentation.
4. A patient undergoes a complete vertebral corpectomy for the excision of an intraspinal lesion in the cervical spine, with subsequent fusion of the adjacent vertebrae.
5. A surgeon performs a partial vertebral corpectomy on a patient with an extradural lesion in the cervical spine, using an anterior approach.