Fusion C-thr Jt w Cust Intbd Fus Dev, Open, New Tech 11

This code describes a surgical procedure to permanently join two or more vertebrae in the cervicothoracic region of the spine. The fusion is achieved by inserting a patient-specific, custom-designed interbody fusion device between the vertebral bodies, accessed through an open incision. This procedure aims to stabilize the spine and alleviate symptoms caused by instability or degeneration.

This code is used when a patient undergoes a cervicothoracic spinal fusion using a unique, anatomically tailored interbody device. This is typically performed for complex cases of spinal instability, severe degenerative disc disease, or deformity where standard off-the-shelf implants are not suitable. It signifies the use of a cutting-edge, patient-specific implant technology.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies the use of a "custom-made anatomically designed interbody fusion device" to justify the New Technology Group 11 designation.
• Verify the approach is explicitly documented as "open" to differentiate from percutaneous or endoscopic methods.
• Confirm the fusion site is specifically within the cervicothoracic region (C7-T1 or adjacent levels).