63197 Lam with cordotomy 1stg thrc
Also known as: thoracic laminectomy cordotomy, thoracic cordotomy with laminectomy
Laminectomy with cordotomy in the thoracic region, first stage. This is an initial or single-stage procedure combining laminectomy with surgical division of spinal cord tracts for pain relief.
In Plain Language
spinal cord incision for pain relief in mid-back
Clinical Context
Used in selected pain syndromes where cordotomy (spinothalamic tract division) combined with laminectomy provides analgesia, increasingly rare with modern pain management options.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 23.48 |
| Total RVU | 23.48 |
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 23.48, this code ranks in the 87th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 63197?
CPT 63197 (Lam with cordotomy 1stg thrc) is a Surgery code. Laminectomy with cordotomy in the thoracic region, first stage. This is an initial or single-stage procedure combining laminectomy with surgical division of spinal cord tracts for pain relief.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 63197?
The work RVU for CPT 63197 is 23.48. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Pain Management. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 63197 used?
Used in selected pain syndromes where cordotomy (spinothalamic tract division) combined with laminectomy provides analgesia, increasingly rare with modern pain management options.
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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.