May 2016 page 13b
Radiology: Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging)
Question: Is the use of fluoroscopy (code 76000) for verification of the surgical site and/or confirmation of procedure success included in open spinal procedures such as described by code 63030, Laminotomy (hemilaminectomy), with decompression of nerve root(s), including partial facetectomy, foraminotomy and/or excision of herniated intervertebral disc; 1 interspace, lumbar, and code 22551, Arthrodesis, anterior interbody, including disc space preparation, discectomy, osteophytectomy and decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve roots; cervical below C2?
Answer: Yes. Fluoroscopy is considered an integral part of spinal surgery and is not separately reportable.
Radiology:...
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This May 2016 CPT Assistant question-and-answer article focuses on diagnostic radiology coding guidance related to fluoroscopy during open spinal surgery. It is relevant to radiology and surgery coders, billing staff, and compliance teams who need to understand the article’s scope, the procedures discussed, and the type of coding guidance provided in the Q&A format.
Why This Topic Matters
The article helps readers identify a commonly reviewed radiology coding scenario involving intraoperative imaging in spinal procedures and understand that the piece is a formal CPT Assistant guidance item rather than a general clinical discussion.
Article Sections
May 2016 page 13b
A short CPT Assistant Q&A page covering diagnostic radiology coding guidance in the context of spinal surgery and fluoroscopy.
What You Will Learn
The article’s focus within diagnostic radiology and spinal surgery coding.
The type of question-and-answer guidance presented in the May 2016 CPT Assistant issue.
How the article frames intraoperative imaging in relation to open spinal procedures.
The general coding context surrounding fluoroscopy during surgery.
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