Advanced Search

Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Try This For Tri-level Laminectomy With Biopsy

Published on Sat Jan 08, 2011

Question: My doctor is performing a 63278 (Laminectomy for biopsy/excision of intraspinal neoplasm; extradural, sacral) but it is at three levels. Can I use this code three times to show the three levels or would I just use it once?Answer: The main thing to consider is the amount of additional work that is involved in the procedure. If there were extenuating circumstances, such as adhesions to get through, etc., you might be able to get more by using a 22 modifier, but the documentation has to be exceptionally detailed to get this. Also, the code itself is not designated to a specific number of levels, so you would use this code once to describe the levels in that section of the spine, as code 63278 is a regional code that describes one or more levels of laminectomy.
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