GKS*dec21
New
Wondering how others are billing the same level with interbody fusion 22633/22630 with decompression 63047 for example. My providers are completing the interbody technique and also completing a wide complete laminectomy with foraminotomy and decompressing the exiting and sometimes traversing nerve root(s). This to me is more than than a typical laminectomy to prepare the interspace. NASS examples show these codes billed together and their reference book states, "When a more aggressive decompression of neural elements is needed (beyond the typical decompression of neural elements inherent in removing bone to access the interbody space for the interbody fusion), it is appropriate to code for such decompression 63047." It further states, "It's recommended the specific nerve root(s) decompressed be documented (example: L4, L5 nerve roots were decompressed via laminectomies with foraminotomies), which my providers are doing and stating. There is however an NCCI edit with Medicare and modifier 59 is also needed. Help is appreciated on how others are billing. Keeping in mind CPT code 22630/22633 both say, "other than for decompression."