63056 Decompress spinal cord lumbar
Also known as: lumbar decompression, lumbar laminectomy, nerve root decompression
Decompression of the spinal cord in the lumbar region. This procedure relieves compression of the lumbar spinal cord and nerve roots from bone, disc, or soft tissue causing myelopathic or radicular symptoms.
In Plain Language
spinal cord and nerve pressure relief in lower back
Clinical Context
Used for lumbar stenosis, disc herniation, or other compressive lesions causing neurogenic claudication or radiculopathy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 21.31 |
| Total RVU | 21.31 |
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 21.31, this code ranks in the 84th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 63056?
CPT 63056 (Decompress spinal cord lumbar) is a Surgery code. Decompression of the spinal cord in the lumbar region. This procedure relieves compression of the lumbar spinal cord and nerve roots from bone, disc, or soft tissue causing myelopathic or radicular symptoms.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 63056?
The work RVU for CPT 63056 is 21.31. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Spine Surgery, Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 63056 used?
Used for lumbar stenosis, disc herniation, or other compressive lesions causing neurogenic claudication or radiculopathy.
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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.