CPT® Code 63305

Vertebral corpectomy (vertebral body resection), partial or complete, for excision of intraspinal lesion, single segment; intradural, thoracic by transthoracic approach

Vertebral corpectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a vertebral body along with the intervertebral discs situated above and below the affected vertebra. This operation is specifically indicated for the excision of an intraspinal lesion, which may include tumors or other abnormal growths located within the spinal canal. The term "intradural" refers to the location of the lesion being within or extending into the dura mater, the protective covering of the spinal cord. The procedure is performed on a single segment of the thoracic spine, which is the middle section of the vertebral column. Access to the thoracic spine is achieved through a transthoracic approach, necessitating a thoracotomy, which is an incision made in the chest wall. This approach allows for adequate exposure of the thoracic spine, enabling the surgeon to perform the corpectomy effectively. Typically, this procedure is carried out by a surgical team, often involving a thoracic surgeon for the exposure and a spine surgeon for the corpectomy itself. The operation requires careful dissection of the overlying muscles and may involve the resection of one or more ribs to facilitate access to the spine. The use of surgical microscopes aids in the precise removal of the intervertebral discs and the vertebral body, as well as in the careful dissection of the lesion from surrounding tissues. Following the excision, the dura may need to be incised if the lesion is found to be within or extending into it, and subsequent repair of the dura is performed to ensure the integrity of the spinal canal. Additionally, procedures for bone grafting and spinal fusion may be conducted to support the spine after the removal of the vertebral body and discs.