CPT® Code 63103

Add-On Code

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); thoracic or lumbar, each additional segment (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Vertebral corpectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the resection of the 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 collaborative 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. These muscles are carefully elevated to reveal the underlying bony structures, including the spinous processes and laminae. The surgical team may utilize intraoperative imaging to accurately identify the tumor or fracture site, ensuring precise removal of the affected vertebral body and any associated pathological tissue. Following the excision, the surgical site is prepared for any necessary additional procedures, such as bone grafting, spinal fusion, or the placement of internal fixation devices.