63173 Drainage of spinal cyst
Also known as: thoracolumbar syrinx drainage, thoracolumbar cyst drainage, thoracolumbar myelotomy
Drainage of spinal cord cyst in the thoracic or lumbar region. This procedure involves accessing and draining cerebrospinal fluid-containing cysts within or adjacent to the thoracic or lumbar spinal cord.
In Plain Language
draining fluid collection in thoracic or lumbar spinal cord
Clinical Context
Used for symptomatic post-traumatic or idiopathic thoracolumbar syrinx causing progressive myelopathy or pain, often in the context of tethered spinal cord.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 23.70 |
| Total RVU | 23.70 |
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 23.70, this code ranks in the 87th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 63173?
CPT 63173 (Drainage of spinal cyst) is a Surgery code. Drainage of spinal cord cyst in the thoracic or lumbar region. This procedure involves accessing and draining cerebrospinal fluid-containing cysts within or adjacent to the thoracic or lumbar spinal cord.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 63173?
The work RVU for CPT 63173 is 23.70. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Spine Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 63173 used?
Used for symptomatic post-traumatic or idiopathic thoracolumbar syrinx causing progressive myelopathy or pain, often in the context of tethered spinal cord.
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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.