Spinal Wound Closure with Flaps

Question:

One of our spine surgeons has asked me to help with an upcoming case. The patient is obese and has had multiple prior spine procedures. The spine surgeon would like me to close using bilateral paraspinal muscle flaps. How do I code the procedure and will I even get paid?

Answer:

Good question because some closure is included in the spine procedure codes. The type of closure included in most surgical procedure codes is classified as simple, intermediate or complex repairs. Simply put, bringing the wound edges together directly is included in surgical procedure codes (except excision of skin lesion codes). You’re doing more than bringing the wound edges together so you are allowed to code for the procedure and you should be paid. You’ll use 15734 for one side and 15734-59 for the contralateral side.