Neurosurgery Coding Alert
X-STOP Bundles Biopsy, Excisions
The latest national Correct Coding Initiative (CCI), version 14.1, bundles several codes into 0171T (Insertion of posterior spinous process distraction device [including necessary removal of bone or ligament for insertion and imaging guidance], lumbar; single level). Code 0171T relates to placing the new X-STOP (or similar) device "for decompressing spinal stenosis posteriorly through a very small incision," says Bill Mallon, MD, medical director at Triangle Orthopaedic Associates in Durham, N.C. What this means for you: You shouldn't report biopsy codes 20220-20251 with 0171T. If you do, payers following CCI guidelines will deny the biopsy codes. Under the latest edits, payers will also deny 22102 (Partial excision of posterior vertebral component [e.g., spinous process, lamina or facet] for intrinsic bony lesion, single vertebral segment; lumbar) and 22214 (Osteotomy of spine, posterior or posterolateral approach, one vertebral segment; lumbar) with 0171T.
Neurosurgery Coding Alert
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