In simple words: This procedure is a repeat surgery on your lower back to relieve pressure on your spinal nerves. The surgeon removes a small portion of bone and/or disc material to create more space for the nerves.

This code describes a re-exploration laminotomy procedure on the lumbar spine. It involves decompressing the nerve roots at a single interspace by removing parts of the lamina, facet joints, and/or herniated disc material.It differs from a primary laminotomy in that it's performed on a site that has been previously operated on.

Example 1: A patient previously underwent a lumbar discectomy at L4-L5.The pain has returned, and imaging shows recurrent disc herniation at the same level. A re-exploration laminotomy is performed using code 63042., A patient with prior lumbar surgery experiences new neurological symptoms. Imaging reveals spinal stenosis at L3-L4. A laminotomy with foraminotomy is performed to decompress the affected nerve roots. Since it’s at a different level, 63042 and not add on code is used., A patient with a history of lumbar fusion develops a herniated disc at a level adjacent to the fusion. A unilateral laminotomy and discectomy are performed at the affected level (e.g., L5-S1) to address the herniation, reported with 63042.

Operative report detailing the approach (laminotomy), the level of the spine, the side(s) operated on (unilateral or bilateral), the decompression performed (including foraminotomy or facetectomy if done), the excision of any disc material, and any complications. Pre- and post-operative imaging studies are also necessary to support the diagnosis and the need for re-exploration. Previous operative notes from the initial surgery are helpful to demonstrate the need for a re-operation.