In simple words: The doctor removes part or all of a neck bone (vertebra) from the front to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This code is used for each extra bone section worked on beyond the first one.

This CPT code, 63082, represents an anterior approach to perform a partial or complete vertebral corpectomy (excision of the vertebral body) with decompression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots.It's specifically for each additional cervical segment beyond the initial segment addressed by the primary procedure (typically 63081). The procedure involves a frontal approach, removing the diseased portion of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the neural structures.This code is always reported in addition to the code for the primary procedure and any associated add-on codes.

Example 1: A patient presents with cervical spondylosis affecting multiple vertebral segments.The surgeon performs an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) at C5-C6 (coded separately) and requires additional corpectomy and decompression at C4-C5 and C6-C7. Code 63082 would be reported twice, once for C4-C5 and once for C6-C7., A patient suffers a cervical fracture with significant spinal cord compression.After initial stabilization, the surgeon performs an anterior approach corpectomy and decompression at C3, followed by additional corpectomy and decompression at C4 and C5.Code 63082 would be reported twice, one for each of the additional segments (C4 and C5)., Two surgeons collaborate on a complex anterior cervical corpectomy. One surgeon performs the corpectomy at C5-C6, while the second surgeon focuses on the decompression and stabilization at C4-C7. Each surgeon would report their respective work using appropriate CPT codes, and modifier 62 would be appended to the appropriate codes.

* Operative report detailing the approach (anterior), the segments involved, the extent of corpectomy (partial or complete), and the decompression performed.* Preoperative imaging (X-rays, CT, MRI) demonstrating the spinal pathology.* Postoperative imaging to confirm the surgical outcome.* Anesthesia records.

** This code is an add-on code and must be reported in addition to the primary procedure code (e.g., 63081).Accurate documentation is crucial for appropriate reimbursement, as this code may be subject to audit.Thorough understanding of surgical techniques and anatomical landmarks is necessary for correct code assignment.