CPT® Code 63102

Vertebral corpectomy (vertebral body resection), partial or complete, lateral extracavitary approach with decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s) (eg, for tumor or retropulsed bone fragments); lumbar, single segment

Vertebral corpectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a vertebral body, which is the main part of a vertebra, along with the intervertebral discs located above and below the affected vertebra. This procedure is typically performed using a lateral extracavitary approach, which allows for better access to the spinal structures while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. The primary indications for this type of surgery include the presence of tumors, retropulsed bone fragments due to fractures, severe spinal stenosis, or infections affecting the vertebral body. In many cases, a co-surgeon or a surgical team may be involved, with a general or thoracic surgeon handling the exposure of the surgical site and a spine surgeon performing the corpectomy itself. The procedure begins with an incision in the midline of the back, which is then extended laterally to expose the paraspinal muscles. The surgical team elevates these muscles to access the underlying structures, including the spinous processes and laminae. Intraoperative imaging may be utilized to accurately identify the tumor or fracture, and additional steps may include resection of ribs and protection of intercostal nerves. The ultimate goal of the vertebral corpectomy is to remove the affected vertebral body and any associated pathological tissue, thereby alleviating pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots, and preparing the site for potential reconstruction or stabilization with bone grafts or internal fixation devices.