63012 Remove lamina/facets lumbar
Also known as: lumbar laminofacetectomy, lumbar facet joint decompression
Laminotomy with removal of lamina and facet joint exploration in lumbar spine. Includes facetectomy and nerve root exposure.
In Plain Language
lumbar bone and joint removal for nerve relief; lumbar facet decompression
Clinical Context
Used for lumbar spinal decompression involving both lamina and facet joint removal.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.43 |
| Total RVU | 16.43 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 16.43, this code ranks in the 76th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 63012?
CPT 63012 (Remove lamina/facets lumbar) is a Surgery code. Laminotomy with removal of lamina and facet joint exploration in lumbar spine. Includes facetectomy and nerve root exposure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 63012?
The work RVU for CPT 63012 is 16.43. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 63012 used?
Used for lumbar spinal decompression involving both lamina and facet joint removal.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.