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Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Distinguish PLIF and PL for Each Level

Published on Mon May 07, 2012

Question: Is anyone else having issues getting 22614 (Arthrodesis, posterior or posterolateral technique, single level; each additional vertebral segment [List separately in addition to code for primary procedure]) paid with 22633 (Arthrodesis, combined posterior or posterolateral technique with posterior interbody technique including laminectomy and/or discectomy sufficient to prepare interspace [other than for decompression], single interspace and segment; lumbar) and/or 22634 (Arthrodesis, combined posterior or posterolateral technique with posterior interbody technique including laminectomy and/or discectomy sufficient to prepare interspace [other than for decompression], single interspace and segment; each additional interspace and segment [List separately in addition to code for primary procedure]) when a posterolateral fusion is being performed at an additional level than the combined PLIF/PL fusion (Example: PLIF/PL fusion done at L4-5 with a PL fusion only at L3-4)? Florida SubscriberAnswer: According to CPT®, you report 22614 as an add-on for 22633 if your surgeon does the arthrodesis at two [...]
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