63200 Release spinal cord lumbar
Also known as: lumbar spinal cord untethering, lumbar cord release, tethered spinal cord release
Release of tethered spinal cord in the lumbar region. This procedure involves surgical division of adhesions or restrictive tissues anchoring the lumbar spinal cord to adjacent structures.
In Plain Language
freeing of anchored spinal cord in lower back
Clinical Context
Used for symptomatic tethered spinal cord causing progressive neurological deterioration, typically in pediatric or adolescent patients with tethering from filum terminale or adhesions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 20.90 |
| Total RVU | 20.90 |
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 20.90, this code ranks in the 83rd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 63200?
CPT 63200 (Release spinal cord lumbar) is a Surgery code. Release of tethered spinal cord in the lumbar region. This procedure involves surgical division of adhesions or restrictive tissues anchoring the lumbar spinal cord to adjacent structures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 63200?
The work RVU for CPT 63200 is 20.90. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Pediatric Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 63200 used?
Used for symptomatic tethered spinal cord causing progressive neurological deterioration, typically in pediatric or adolescent patients with tethering from filum terminale or adhesions.
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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.