Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: I have been holding my claims for the surgeon's work inserting an X Stop device because I heard that we-re soon to get a category I code for this service. Can you tell me when this new code will be debuting?


Georgia Subscriber

Answer: You should report your surgeon's services with dates of service of Jan. 1, 2007, or afterward using the new T codes:

- 0171T--Insertion of posterior spinous process distraction device (including necessary removal of bone or ligament for insertion and imaging guidance), lumbar; single level

- +0172T--... each additional level (list separately in addition to code for primary procedure) (use 0172T in conjunction with code 0171T).

If the surgeon inserted an X Stop device prior to Jan. 1, you should report the unlisted-procedure code, 22899 (Unlisted procedure, spine). In addition, the request to CPT for a category I code for the X Stop was recently withdrawn, so you should not hold your claims waiting for a numeric code.

As an aside, even if CPT did announce a new category I code for this service, the code would probably take effect only at its publication date. So unless you hear otherwise, you should use the T codes and should not hold claims.