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Neurosurgery Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Laminotomy Includes Endo Assist

Published on Tue Jan 08, 2008

Question: How should I code if the surgeon uses endoscopic assist during lumbar laminotomy? I don't see an endoscopy code for this. Must I apply an unlisted- procedure code?


Utah Subscriber


Answer: You are correct that CPT does not contain a specific code for this procedure. However, the standard lumbar laminotomy procedure code 63030 (Laminotomy [hemilaminectomy], with decompression of nerve root[s], including partial facetectomy, foraminotomy and/or excision of herniated intervertebral disc; one interspace, lumbar [including open or endoscopically assisted approach]) already includes the use of neuroendoscopic assist. You shouldn't report anything additional to claim endoscopic assist, if performed.
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