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Code deleted, see 22899

Official Description

Arthrodesis, pre-sacral interbody technique, disc space preparation, discectomy, without instrumentation, with image guidance, includes bone graft when performed; L5-S1 interspace

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0195T refers to a specific type of lumbar arthrodesis, which is a surgical technique aimed at fusing the lumbar vertebrae to alleviate pain and stabilize the spine. This particular approach utilizes a pre-sacral interbody technique, which is also known as transsacral or paracoccygeal. This minimally invasive method involves accessing the anterior portion of the disc space through a small incision made near the coccyx, allowing for a less invasive entry point compared to traditional open surgery. The patient is positioned prone, and fluoroscopic imaging is employed to guide the surgical instruments accurately. During the procedure, a trocar is inserted anterior to the sacrum to create a presacral channel that leads into the disc space. The adjacent vertebral bodies are then distracted to facilitate the removal of the intervertebral disc material and the cartilage from the end plates of the vertebrae. This preparation is crucial for the subsequent spinal fusion, as it ensures that the surfaces are adequately prepared for the placement of bone graft material. Bone grafts, which may be obtained from a donor (allograft) or the patient themselves (autograft), are packed into the prepared disc space to promote fusion between the vertebrae. The procedure is specifically indicated for the L5-S1 interspace, and it is essential to report this code accurately to reflect the surgical intervention performed.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0195T is indicated for patients experiencing conditions that necessitate lumbar spinal fusion at the L5-S1 interspace. These indications may include:

  • Chronic lower back pain resulting from degenerative disc disease or other spinal disorders.
  • Instability of the lumbar spine due to trauma, tumors, or degenerative changes.
  • Herniated disc that has not responded to conservative treatment options.
  • Spinal stenosis leading to nerve compression and associated symptoms.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 0195T involves several critical steps to ensure successful lumbar arthrodesis:

  • Step 1: Patient Positioning The patient is placed in a prone position on the operating table to provide optimal access to the lumbar spine. This positioning is essential for the subsequent steps of the procedure.
  • Step 2: Incision and Trocar Insertion A small incision is made at the level of the coccyx, slightly lateral to the midline. A trocar is then advanced anterior to the sacrum under fluoroscopic guidance, which allows for precise navigation to the disc space.
  • Step 3: Creation of Presacral Channel A presacral channel is created in the disc space, facilitating access to the intervertebral disc. This minimally invasive approach minimizes tissue disruption and promotes quicker recovery.
  • Step 4: Disc Space Preparation The two adjacent vertebral bodies are distracted to prepare the disc interspace. This involves the removal of the intervertebral disc material and the cartilage from the end plates of the adjacent vertebrae, ensuring a clean surface for fusion.
  • Step 5: Bone Graft Placement Bone graft material, which may be an allograft or autograft, is packed into the prepared disc space. This grafting is crucial for promoting spinal fusion between the vertebrae.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the procedure, patients typically require monitoring in a recovery area. Post-operative care may include pain management, physical therapy, and instructions for activity restrictions to promote healing. The expected recovery period can vary based on individual patient factors and the extent of the procedure performed. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the success of the fusion and to monitor for any potential complications.

Short Descr PRESCRL FUSE W/O INSTR L5/S1
Medium Descr ARTHRODESIS PRESACRAL INTRBDY W/O INSTRUM L5/S1
Long Descr Arthrodesis, pre-sacral interbody technique, disc space preparation, discectomy, without instrumentation, with image guidance, includes bone graft when performed; L5-S1 interspace
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 09 - 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 Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 158 - Spinal fusion
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Notes
2019-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 22899
2013-01-01 Changed Description Changed. Guideline information changed. Also, short and medium descriptors changed per AMA 2013 corrections document.
2009-01-01 Added -
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