CPT® Code 63035

Add-On Code

Laminotomy (hemilaminectomy), with decompression of nerve root(s), including partial facetectomy, foraminotomy and/or excision of herniated intervertebral disc; each additional interspace, cervical or lumbar (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

A laminotomy, also referred to as a hemilaminectomy, is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. This is achieved through a posterior approach, where an incision is made into the lamina, which is the bony arch of the vertebra. The primary goal of this procedure is to decompress the affected nerve root(s) that may be compressed due to various conditions, such as herniated intervertebral discs or spinal stenosis. During the procedure, the surgeon may also perform a partial facetectomy, which involves the removal of a portion of the facet joint, and a foraminotomy, which is the widening of the foramen—the opening through which the nerve roots exit the spinal column. The procedure may also include the excision of herniated disc material that is pressing on the nerves. The surgical approach typically involves careful dissection of the muscles and verification of the surgical level using radiographic imaging. The use of an operating microscope allows for precision in removing the necessary bone and tissue to alleviate nerve compression. This code, CPT® 63035, is specifically designated for each additional interspace treated, whether in the cervical or lumbar region, following the primary procedure, which is reported separately using codes 63020 for cervical interspace and 63030 for lumbar interspace.