CPT® Code 63011

Laminectomy with exploration and/or decompression of spinal cord and/or cauda equina, without facetectomy, foraminotomy or discectomy (eg, spinal stenosis), 1 or 2 vertebral segments; sacral

Laminectomy, also known as lamina excision, is a surgical procedure aimed at alleviating back pain and relieving pressure on the spinal cord, spinal nerve roots, and/or cauda equina. The lamina refers to the bony structure that forms the posterior aspect of the vertebral arch, which is crucial for protecting the spinal cord. During the procedure, a posterior skin incision is made over the affected area of the spine to access the lamina. The surgeon retracts the overlying fat and muscle to expose the lamina, which is then excised. This excision also involves the removal of the paired ligaments, known as the ligamentum flavum, that connect the laminae of adjacent vertebrae. By doing so, the spinal canal is opened up, allowing for exploration and identification of any underlying issues. The procedure may also involve lysis of adhesions between the dura mater and the ligamentum flavum, facilitating the careful dissection and freeing of the spinal nerve roots and/or cauda equina within the intervertebral foramen. Laminectomy can be performed on one or two contiguous vertebral segments, and if necessary, a separate arthrodesis may be conducted to stabilize the spine. This specific code, CPT® 63011, is designated for laminectomy procedures performed on the sacral spine.