AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) — Question 69

A 67-year-old male presents with DJD and spondylolisthesis at L4-L5 The patient is placed prone on the operating table and, after induction of general anesthesia, the lower back is sterilely prepped and draped. One incision was made over L1-L5. This was confirmed with a probe under fluoroscopy. Laminectomies are done at vertebral segments L4 and L5 with facetectomies to relieve pressure to the nerve roots. Allograft was packed in the gutters from L1-L5 for a posterior arthrodesis. Pedicle screws were placed at L2, L3, and L4. The construct was copiously irrigated and muscle; fascia and skin were closed in layers.
Select the procedure codes for this scenario.

Answer options

• A. 63005 x 2, 22612, 22614 x 3, 22842
• B. 63042, 63043, 22808, 22841 x 3
• C. 63047, 63048, 22612, 22614 x 3, 22842
• D. 63017, 63048, 22612, 22808, 22842 x 3

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is C, which accurately reflects the procedures performed: laminectomies and facetectomies at L4 and L5, along with the posterior arthrodesis and placement of pedicle screws. The other options either include incorrect codes for the procedures performed or omit necessary codes related to the surgical interventions described in the scenario.