Description
Master spinal decompression procedure coding! Spinal decompression procedures are among the most challenging areas to code. Multiple anatomical structures — such as the lamina, facets, foramen, and nerve roots — and inconsistent terminology in operative reports make it difficult to determine which structures were decompressed and at which level. To add to the complexity, decompression codes (e.g., laminectomy, facetectomy, foraminotomy) often overlap in description, and CPT guidelines vary depending on approach and number of levels.
If you’ve ever felt frustrated coding these procedures, this webinar is for you. We’ll simplify terminology, clarify documentation requirements, and help you build confidence in assigning the correct CPT codes—and in communicating effectively with providers to ensure complete operative reports.
Objectives:
- Identify key anatomical structures involved in spinal decompression procedures and their relationship to CPT coding
- Differentiate between common decompression procedures (laminectomy, facetectomy, foraminotomy) and the CPT codes that describe them
- Interpret the operative report documentation to determine what was decompressed and at which spinal level
- Apply CPT coding guidelines and add-on code rules (e.g., 63047, 63048) to real-world operative report examples
- Evaluate operative reports to determine when provider clarification or additional documentation is needed for accurate coding compliance
Presenter
Kristi Pollard, RHIT, CCS, CPC, CIRCC
Kristi serves as the Director of Coding Quality & Education and brings more than 30 years of experience in the health information and coding industry. In her role, she oversees the development of comprehensive training materials – including web-based courses, instructor-led training, and webinars – while also providing education in ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT. Her expertise extends to conducting DRG and APC audits and leading a wide range of coding quality initiatives. With a deep background in coding education and consulting, Kristi is a nationally recognized speaker and published author on ICD-10, CPT coding, and code-based reimbursement. She has designed and implemented robust inpatient and outpatient training programs, with specialized emphasis on vascular interventional radiology, cardiology, and obstetrics.
CE Credits
AHIMA – CEU pending
This webinar has been approved for 1 continuing education unit for use in fulfilling the continued education requirements of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Granting prior approval from AHIMA does not constitute endorsement of the program content or its program sponsor.
AAPC – CEU pending
This program has the prior approval of the American Academy for Professional Coders (AAPC) for 1 continuing education hour. Granting of prior approval in no way constitutes endorsement by AAPC of the program content or the program sponsor.
Purchasing Details
Pricing Options Defined
- Individual Learner: Entitles individual access to the on-demand webinar for 6 months. You will receive an email with your www.HaugenAcademy.com credentials after purchasing. This may land in your spam/junk folder.
- Provider Organization: The on-demand webinar may be shared with others within your provider organization (hospitals, health systems, or physician groups). You will receive an email from Haugen Webinars with a unique link to share with your team. Webinar recordings are available for the length of the AHIMA-Approved CEU unless otherwise noted.
- Corporate Organization (Up to 150 Learners): The on-demand webinar may be shared with others within your corporation. You will receive an email from Haugen Webinars with a unique link to share with your team. Webinar recordings are available for the length of the AHIMA-Approved CEU unless otherwise noted. If you have more than 150 learners, please Contact Us for pricing.
Additional Purchasing Details
- If you require an invoice to proceed with this registration, contact us at 720-502-7690.
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