2025 CPT code 21610
Costotransversectomy (separate procedure)
Modifiers may be applicable to this code depending upon the circumstances. Refer to current CPT guidelines for appropriate modifier usage.
Medical necessity must be established by documenting the patient's symptoms, diagnostic findings, and failed conservative treatments. The documentation should clearly justify why the costotransversectomy is necessary for the patient's condition.
The surgeon makes an incision over the rib, divides the surrounding muscles, detaches the rib and the transverse process from their attachments, and removes them. The surgical area is then cleaned, checked for bleeding, and closed.
In simple words: This procedure involves removing a small section of a rib and the connecting piece of the backbone to relieve pressure on spinal nerves or treat spinal tumors.
Surgical removal of a rib along with its corresponding transverse process of the vertebra. This procedure is performed to access the spine for various reasons, including decompression of spinal nerves or treatment of spinal tumors.
Example 1: A patient with severe back pain due to nerve compression caused by a bone spur undergoes a costotransversectomy to remove the bone spur and decompress the nerve., A patient with a spinal tumor requires a costotransversectomy to access the tumor for treatment with radiation or chemotherapy., During a corpectomy procedure, a costotransversectomy is performed to access the vertebral body.
Documentation should include the reason for the costotransversectomy, the specific rib and vertebra involved, the surgical approach used, and any complications encountered.
** Costotransversectomy is frequently performed as part of more extensive spinal surgeries, such as corpectomy and fusion procedures. As of today's date, December 10, 2024, the information provided reflects current coding practices and guidelines. These guidelines are, however, subject to change, and it is essential to consult up-to-date resources for the most current and accurate information. Always check the latest version of the CPT manual, NCCI edits, and payer-specific guidelines.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center