Advanced Search

Orthopedic Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Does CPT Include a Spondylolisthesis Code?

Published on Wed Mar 23, 2005

Question: Which CPT code should we report when the orthopedist performs a reduction of spondylolisthesis during a lumbar procedure? He usually documents this when he performs a fusion, instrumentation insertion, or laminectomy with decompression.


Florida Subscriber


Answer: Unfortunately, you cannot separately report the spondylolisthesis reduction that the surgeon performed during the lumbar procedures.

Most insurers would consider the spondylolisthesis incidental to the main procedure (the fusion, instrumentation insertion, or laminectomy).

The payer would most likely reason that the spondylolisthesis is automatically "reduced" when the surgeon inserts the rods, and you therefore cannot separately collect for the reduction.
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

Orthopedic Coding Alert

View All