Advanced Search

Neurosurgery Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Neoplasm Makes the Difference With 63270, 63275

Published on Sun Jan 01, 2006

Question: My doctor states he did hemilaminectomy with resection of extradural mass located at C7-T1. Can you help me figure out the correct code to use?


Pennsylvania Subscriber


Answer: The answer depends on the type of mass the doctor operated on. If the mass was a neoplasm, you should report 63275 (Laminectomy for biopsy/excision of intraspinal neoplasm; extradural, cervical).

If it was not a neoplasm, look at code 63270 (Laminectomy for excision of intraspinal lesion other than neoplasm, intradural; cervical). For example, this is the code you would report for excision of a synovial cyst. You should submit the diagnosis and the procedure codes via a pathology report, in case of audit.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Neurosurgery Coding Alert

View All