AMA CPT® Assistant - 2014 Issue 10 (October)
Category III Codes (Q&A) (October 2014)
October 2014 page 15 Category III Codes Question: What is the appropriate CPT code to use for a lumbar stabilization procedure performed using intralaminar technology? Answer: Code 0171T, Insertion of posterior spinous process distraction device (including necessary removal of bone or ligament for insertion and imaging guidance), lumbar; single level, is appropriate to report for insertion of an intralaminar device that still allows motion. A minimal decompression when performed and resection of the spinous process, lamina, or facet joint are considered inclusive in code 0171T and would not be reported separately. If the decompression work is significantly more work...
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Article Overview
This article explains a coding question-and-answer focused on a lumbar stabilization procedure in the CPT Category III section. It is intended for coders, billing staff, and clinical documentation reviewers who need to understand how the topic is discussed in relation to CPT reporting, related procedure concepts, and modifier use in a limited Q&A format.
Why This Topic Matters
Articles like this help coding professionals understand how a specific procedure is addressed in CPT Assistant guidance and whether the topic may affect reporting, documentation review, or code selection workflows.
Article Sections
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October 2014 page 15
The page identifies the publication context for the Q&A and introduces the coding topic covered in the article.
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Category III Codes
This section presents a coding question and answer about a lumbar stabilization procedure and discusses related reporting concepts for CPT Category III guidance.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames a coding question about lumbar stabilization procedures.
- What general types of CPT reporting considerations are discussed in the Q&A format.
- Which broader topics are connected to intralaminar or interlaminar device procedures.
- How the article addresses related procedure coding and modifier use at a high level.
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Billing and reimbursement staff
- Clinical documentation improvement staff
- Physician practice managers
Codes Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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