Medical Billing Forum

Coding => Coding => : ascbiller October 10, 2011, 07:17:33 PM

: Lateral TLIF
: ascbiller October 10, 2011, 07:17:33 PM
Surgeon noted the following procedures:
Right Lateral L2-L3 & L3-L4 transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion & placement of pedicle screws in right L2-L3 & Left L3-L4;
Usage of morselized allograft & autograft;
Interspinous fusion, L2-L3, L3-L4, with morselized allograft & autograft

The surgeon reported cpt code 22533 (Arthrodesis, lateral extracavitary tchnique, lumbar) presumably due to the lateral approach, but it has been my understanding that this procedure should always be coded as anterior (22558).  Any insight on coding this procedure.  I can post additional redacted records if its needed.  Neuro is not my strongest specialty so Im not sure whatexactly how much is needed to determine.
Thank you! 
: Re: Lateral TLIF
: Michele October 10, 2011, 09:41:29 PM
Sorry but I'm not a coder.  :(