Should two codes be assigned for excision of a herniated disc and a decompressive laminectomy performed during the same operative session?
Codes 03.09 and 80.51 should never be assigned together when performed at the same site and session. If these two procedures are performed at different vertebral levels, then it is appropriate to assign both codes together. Remember that the decompressive laminectomy code is included in 80.51. If the decompression is the only procedure performed, then assign code 03.09 for “Other exploration and decompression of spinal cord.
