Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
RedactPHI
HIPAA-Compliant PHI Redaction
DetectICD10CM
ICD-10-CM Code Detection
Log in Register free account
1 code page views remaining. Guest accounts are limited to 1 page view. Register free account to get 5 more views.
Log in Register free account
CPT®
0171T

CPT® Code 0171T
Deleted

Code deleted, see 22869, 22870

Official Description

Insertion of posterior spinous process distraction device (including necessary removal of bone or ligament for insertion and imaging guidance), lumbar; single level

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0171T involves the insertion of a posterior spinous process distraction device specifically in the lumbar region of the spine at a single level. This minimally invasive technique is designed to alleviate symptoms associated with lumbar stenosis, which often occurs alongside degeneration of the intervertebral disc and a reduction in disc height. Patients may experience neurogenic claudication, characterized by pain and discomfort in the lower extremities due to nerve compression. During the procedure, an incision is made over the targeted intervertebral disc space, allowing access through the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and lumbosacral fascia to expose the inferior and superior spinous processes, as well as the interspinous ligament. The procedure may require the removal of bone or ligament to facilitate the insertion of the distraction device. Imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, is utilized to ensure proper alignment and positioning of the device during and after the insertion process. This technique is also referred to as interspinous distraction or interspinous process decompression (IPD), and it aims to create more space within the spinal canal, thereby relieving pressure on the spinal nerves.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure is indicated for patients experiencing symptoms related to lumbar stenosis, which may include:

  • Neurogenic Claudication - Pain, weakness, or numbness in the legs that occurs with walking or prolonged standing, often relieved by sitting or bending forward.
  • Degeneration of Intervertebral Discs - Deterioration of the discs that can lead to reduced disc height and contribute to spinal canal narrowing.
  • Loss of Disc Height - A decrease in the height of the intervertebral discs, which can exacerbate spinal stenosis and nerve compression.

2. Procedure

The procedure involves several key steps to ensure successful insertion of the distraction device:

  • Step 1: Incision and Exposure - A surgical incision is made in the skin over the affected intervertebral disc space. The incision is carefully extended through the subcutaneous tissue and lumbosacral fascia to expose the underlying anatomical structures.
  • Step 2: Bone and Ligament Removal - Once the inferior and superior spinous processes are exposed, the surgeon may need to remove bone or ligament from these structures to create sufficient space for the device insertion.
  • Step 3: Placement of Lamina Spreaders - Lamina spreaders are then inserted between the lamina of the two adjacent vertebral segments. This action applies distraction to the spinous processes, effectively enlarging the opening and relieving pressure on the spinal canal.
  • Step 4: Removal of Interspinous Ligament - If necessary, the interspinous ligament may also be removed to facilitate the procedure and enhance the effectiveness of the distraction device.
  • Step 5: Insertion of IPD Device - The interspinous process distraction (IPD) device is carefully inserted between the spinous processes into the surgically created defect, providing support and maintaining the distraction achieved during the procedure.
  • Step 6: Discontinuation of Distraction - After the device is in place, distraction is discontinued, and the lamina spreaders are removed, allowing the surgical site to be closed.
  • Step 7: Imaging Guidance - Throughout the procedure, intraoperative imaging and/or fluoroscopy may be utilized to verify the alignment and positioning of the IPD device before and after its insertion.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care typically involves monitoring the patient for any immediate complications and ensuring proper recovery. Patients may be advised on activity restrictions and rehabilitation exercises to promote healing and restore function. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the effectiveness of the procedure and to monitor for any potential issues related to the IPD device. The expected recovery time may vary based on individual patient factors and the extent of the procedure performed.
Short Descr LUMBAR SPINE PROCES DISTRACT
Medium Descr PST SPINOUS PROCESS DEVICE INSERT LMBR 1 LVL
Long Descr Insertion of posterior spinous process distraction device (including necessary removal of bone or ligament for insertion and imaging guidance), lumbar; single level
Status Code Carriers Price the Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 9 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P3D - Major procedure, orthopedic - other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 164 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on musculoskeletal system
Date
Action
Notes
2016-12-31 Deleted Code deleted, see 22869, 22870
2008-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2008.
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"