CPT® Code 63081

Vertebral corpectomy (vertebral body resection), partial or complete, anterior approach with decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s); cervical, single segment

Vertebral corpectomy, as defined by CPT® Code 63081, is a surgical procedure that involves the resection of a vertebral body, which may be either partial or complete, through an anterior approach. This procedure is specifically performed on the cervical spine and targets a single segment. The primary objective of a vertebral corpectomy is to decompress the spinal cord and/or nerve roots that may be compromised due to various pathological conditions. Commonly, this procedure is indicated for severe spinal stenosis, which is often accompanied by the presence of bone spurs that arise from both the vertebral body and the vertebral arch. Additionally, vertebral corpectomy may be indicated in cases of fractures, tumors, or infections affecting the spine. The surgical approach begins with an incision in the anterior aspect of the neck, allowing for the careful dissection of soft tissues and muscles to access the cervical spine. The procedure entails the removal of intervertebral discs adjacent to the affected vertebral body, followed by the excision of the vertebral body itself. This meticulous approach ensures that any impinging bone spurs and ligaments covering the spinal cord are also addressed, thereby alleviating pressure on the neural structures. Following the corpectomy, additional procedures such as bone grafting and fusion may be performed to stabilize the spine and promote healing.