Summary & Overview
CPT 62287: Percutaneous Lumbar Discectomy, Needle-Based Decompression
Headline: CPT code 62287: Image-Guided Percutaneous Lumbar Discectomy for Nucleus Pulposus Removal
Lead: CPT code 62287 defines a minimally invasive, percutaneous lumbar discectomy in which part of the nucleus pulposus is removed using a needle-based technique under imaging guidance; the service may include discography or epidural injection and covers one or more lumbar levels in a single session. This procedure is clinically relevant for targeted decompression of herniated or degenerative lumbar discs and has implications for utilization, prior authorization, and site-of-service decisions.
CPT code 62287 represents a targeted, image-guided interventional spinal procedure. It matters nationally as minimally invasive spinal techniques continue to be alternatives to open surgery for selected patients, affecting patterns of care, outpatient procedural volume, and payer coverage policies. Key payers in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare.
Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context, typical sites of service, and the procedural components captured by the code. The publication outlines common modifiers and expected billing nuances, summarizes payer coverage posture, and highlights areas where policy updates or documentation requirements commonly influence reimbursement and utilization. Data not available in the input will be noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 62287 describes a percutaneous needle-based lumbar discectomy in which the provider decompresses the lumbar spine by removing part of the nucleus pulposus (the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc). The procedure requires imaging guidance and may include discography, epidural injection, or both as part of the same session. This service applies to one or more lumbar levels in a single session.
Service type: Minimally invasive spinal decompression (percutaneous lumbar discectomy)
Typical site of service: Ambulatory surgery center or hospital outpatient department, with potential performance in interventional radiology suites or specialized procedural rooms where imaging guidance is available.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 46-year-old patient with chronic lower back pain and intermittent radicular symptoms refractory to conservative measures (physical therapy, oral analgesics, and selective epidural steroid injections) presents for a percutaneous lumbar nucleotomy using image guidance. Pre-procedure evaluation includes review of prior MRI showing a contained lumbar disc herniation at L4–L5 correlating with clinical findings, informed consent, and procedural time-out. The procedure is performed in an ambulatory surgery center or hospital outpatient department under conscious sedation or monitored anesthesia care. Using fluoroscopic or CT imaging guidance, a needle-based percutaneous device is advanced into the nucleus pulposus at one or more lumbar levels; a portion of the nucleus pulposus is aspirated or ablated to decompress the disc. Discography or an epidural injection may be performed during the same session for diagnostic confirmation or therapeutic effect. Post-procedure monitoring includes neurologic assessment, pain control, activity restrictions, and discharge instructions; typical recovery allows same-day discharge with outpatient follow-up to assess symptom relief and wound care.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
11 | Provider performed the service | When reporting the standard service without unusual circumstances |