Coding
Spinal Navigation
Paul Saiz, MD
3 Crosses Orthopaedic Spine
Las Cruces, NM
With the increased use of navigation, many questions arise regarding when it is appropriate to code for use of the various stereotactic navigation systems available. This article will focus on spinal navigation and give a brief history and description of the code.
History
Prior to 2011, CPT code 61795 was reported as an add-on code when medically necessary, for all stereotactic computer-assisted volumetric (navigational) procedures, whether intracranial, extracranial, or spinal. Starting in October 2008, 61795 Stereotactic computer-assisted volumetric (navigational) procedure, intracranial, extracranial, or spinal was revisited secondary to potential misvaluation by the RUC. In 2011, this was divided into three codes 61781, 61782, 61783.*
- +61781 refers to Stereotactic computer assisted (navigational) procedure; cranial, intradural.
- +61782 describes Stereotactic computer assisted (navigational) procedure; cranial, extradural.
- +61783 is used for Stereotactic computer assisted (navigational) procedures; spinal.
*These codes are add-on codes (“+”) and must follow the primary procedure code. They can be used only once per operative session.