63081 Remove vertebral body dcmprn crvl
Also known as: cervical vertebrectomy, cervical corpectomy, vertebral body excision
Removal of vertebral body for decompression in the cervical region. This extensive procedure involves excision of the vertebral body itself to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots, often requiring bone graft and instrumentation.
In Plain Language
neck bone removal for spinal decompression
Clinical Context
Used for severe cervical stenosis, particularly in cases of ossified posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), central cord syndrome, or extensive cervical myelopathy requiring substantial decompression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 25.45 |
| Total RVU | 25.45 |
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 25.45, this code ranks in the 89th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 63081?
CPT 63081 (Remove vertebral body dcmprn crvl) is a Surgery code. Removal of vertebral body for decompression in the cervical region. This extensive procedure involves excision of the vertebral body itself to decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots, often requiring bone graft and instrumentation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 63081?
The work RVU for CPT 63081 is 25.45. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Spine Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 63081 used?
Used for severe cervical stenosis, particularly in cases of ossified posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL), central cord syndrome, or extensive cervical myelopathy requiring substantial decompression.
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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.