Discuss AAPC CPC Exam Topic 14 Question 64

Patient has cervical spondylosis with myelopathy. The surgeon performed a bilateral posterior laminectomy with facetectomies at each level and foraminotomies performed between interspaces C5-C6 and C6-C7. Bilateral decompression of the nerve roots is achieved.

What CPT coding is reported?

A63045, 63048

B63040-50, 63043, 63043

C63050-50

D63015

Suggested Answer: A

Cervical spondylosis with myelopathy: Condition requiring decompressive surgery.

Bilateral posterior laminectomy, facetectomies, foraminotomies: Procedures performed to decompress nerve roots.

Interspaces C5-C6 and C6-C7: Specific levels where the procedures were performed.

CPT code 63045 is used for the initial cervical laminectomy, and 63048 is for each additional segment. The combination covers the decompression across two interspaces.

Get Premium CPC Questions as Interactive Web-Based Practice Test or PDF Real Exam Format Detailed Explanations Instant Access Get Your Practice Test

12 comments · newest first

Theola 2 months ago

I'm leaning towards C) 63050-50. Seems to fit the bilateral aspect well.

Sherron 2 months ago

I feel like it's B) 63040-50, 63043, 63043. Covers everything done.

Fannie 2 months ago

I think it's A) 63045, 63048. Sounds right for the procedure.

Melda 2 months ago

Wow, I didn't realize how detailed these codes could get!

Taryn 2 months ago

I disagree, it should be B) 63040-50, 63043, 63043 for the decompression.

Quinn 2 months ago

Wait, is it really that straightforward?

Quentin 3 months ago

I think it's A) 63045, 63048. That matches the description.

Brianne 3 months ago

Sounds like a complex procedure, definitely involves multiple levels.

Virgilio 3 months ago

I’m a bit confused about the difference between 63045 and 63048. I feel like I need to double-check the definitions before answering.

Shaunna 3 months ago

I practiced a similar question last week, and I believe it was about coding for decompression surgeries. I think it might be C.

Felicidad 3 months ago

I think the answer might be A, but I can't recall if we need to account for the bilateral aspect of the procedure.

Nicolette 4 months ago

I remember we discussed laminectomies in class, but I'm not sure if the foraminotomies change the coding.

AAPC CPC Exam - Topic 14 Question 64 Discussion