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Official Description

Stereotactic radiosurgery (particle beam, gamma ray, or linear accelerator); each additional spinal lesion (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is a non-invasive medical procedure that utilizes advanced technology to deliver high doses of radiation precisely to targeted areas within the body, specifically for treating spinal lesions. This technique employs various forms of radiation, including particle beams, gamma rays, or linear accelerators, to achieve its therapeutic effects. The primary goal of SRS is to destroy or shrink tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. In the context of spinal lesions, SRS is particularly beneficial as it allows for the treatment of lesions located in challenging anatomical areas, where traditional surgical approaches may pose significant risks. The procedure is characterized by its ability to focus multiple intersecting beams of radiation on a single lesion, ensuring that the maximum dose is delivered directly to the tumor while sparing adjacent structures. This method is often performed in conjunction with advanced imaging techniques, such as three-dimensional MRI or CT scans, to accurately visualize the lesion and plan the treatment. The use of immobilization devices and fiducial markers further enhances the precision of the procedure, making it a preferred option for patients with specific spinal conditions.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is indicated for the treatment of various spinal lesions. These indications may include:

  • Spinal Tumors - SRS is commonly used to treat primary or metastatic tumors located in the spinal column.
  • Spinal Lesions - This includes lesions that may be benign or malignant, requiring targeted radiation therapy to manage growth or alleviate symptoms.
  • Recurrent Tumors - SRS can be indicated for patients with tumors that have recurred after previous treatments.
  • Lesions in Difficult Locations - SRS is particularly beneficial for lesions situated in areas that are difficult to access surgically.

2. Procedure

The procedure for stereotactic radiosurgery on spinal lesions involves several critical steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Planning and Imaging - Prior to the actual treatment, a planning procedure is conducted where the spinal lesion is visualized using advanced imaging techniques such as three-dimensional MRI or CT scans. This step is crucial for accurately determining the location and volume of the lesion, as well as identifying surrounding anatomical structures that may be at risk during treatment.
  • Step 2: Patient Positioning and Stabilization - The patient is positioned appropriately for the procedure. For lesions located in the cervical spine, a molded face mask may be utilized to stabilize the head and neck. In cases where the lesion is in the thoracic or lumbar spine, gold fiducial markers are implanted into the pedicles adjacent to the lesion. These markers serve as reference points to direct the radiation beams accurately.
  • Step 3: Treatment Delivery - Depending on the technology used, the treatment delivery varies. If a gamma knife is employed, the patient is placed on the gamma bed, which then moves into the treatment area and locks into position with the radiation source. The planned radiation dose is then delivered to the lesion. Alternatively, if a linear accelerator (LINAC) is used, a computer system in conjunction with a micro-multileaf collimator shapes and arranges the high-energy radiation beams to match the configuration of the lesion. The gantry of the LINAC rotates around the patient, delivering the radiation dose precisely as planned.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the stereotactic radiosurgery procedure, patients are typically monitored for any immediate side effects or complications. Post-procedure care may include follow-up imaging to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and monitor for any changes in the lesion. Patients may experience some mild side effects, such as fatigue or localized discomfort, which usually resolve over time. It is essential for patients to follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding activity levels and any necessary follow-up appointments to ensure optimal recovery and management of their condition.

Short Descr SRS SPINAL LESION ADDL
Medium Descr STEREOTACTIC RADIOSURGERY EA ADDL SPINAL LESION
Long Descr Stereotactic radiosurgery (particle beam, gamma ray, or linear accelerator); each additional spinal lesion (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
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) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply 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 Code Not Recognized by OPPS when submitted on Outpatient Hospital Part B Bill Type (12x/13x)
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE 2
CCS Clinical Classification 9 - Other OR therapeutic nervous system procedures

This is an add-on code that must be used in conjunction with one of these primary codes.

63620 MPFS Status: Active Code APC B Stereotactic radiosurgery (particle beam, gamma ray, or linear accelerator); 1 spinal lesion
58 Staged or related procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was: (a) planned or anticipated (staged); (b) more extensive than the original procedure; or (c) for therapy following a surgical procedure. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 58 to the staged or related procedure. note: for treatment of a problem that requires a return to the operating/procedure room (eg, unanticipated clinical condition), see modifier 78.
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
78 Unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician or other qualified health care professional following initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that another procedure was performed during the postoperative period of the initial procedure (unplanned procedure following initial procedure). when this procedure is related to the first, and requires the use of an operating/procedure room, it may be reported by adding modifier 78 to the related procedure. (for repeat procedures, see modifier 76.)
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
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2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2009-01-01 Added -
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