AAPC Nervous System Coding 3

Question 1

For the permanent implantation of a spinal cord stimulator system following a successful trial, which combination of CPT codes is typically reported?

Accepted Answer

63650 (or 63655) for electrode array AND 63685 for the pulse generator

Answer

Permanent spinal cord stimulator implantation requires separate codes for the electrode array (63650 percutaneous or 63655 open/laminectomy) and the pulse generator (63685), as they are distinct billable components.

Question 2

A surgeon performs a posterior lumbar microdiscectomy (laminotomy with herniated disc excision) at a single level. The primary CPT code is:

Accepted Answer

63030

Answer

CPT 63030 describes laminotomy (hemilaminectomy) with decompression of nerve roots including excision of a herniated intervertebral disc at a single lumbar level.

Question 3

Neuroplasty and transposition of the ulnar nerve at the elbow is reported with:

Accepted Answer

64718

Answer

CPT 64718 specifically describes neuroplasty and/or transposition of the ulnar nerve at the elbow.

Question 4

Insertion of a spinal neurostimulator pulse generator (implantable pulse generator) is reported with which CPT code?

Accepted Answer

63685

Answer

CPT 63685 describes insertion or replacement of a spinal neurostimulator pulse generator or receiver.

Question 5

Destruction by neurolytic agent of a lumbar paravertebral facet joint nerve at a single level is reported with:

Accepted Answer

64635

Answer

CPT 64635 describes destruction by neurolytic agent of the paravertebral facet joint nerve at the lumbar or sacral level, single level.

AAPC - American Academy of Professional Coders Practice Test

AAPC - American Academy of Professional Coders Practice Test

AAPC Nervous System Coding 3