LECA & Lami?

Question:

Our practice is slightly confused. In the setting of a LECA corpectomy, is a laminectomy separately reportable? Can KZA provide some clarity for our practice?

Answer:

Thank you for asking KZA!

Identifying the intent of the laminectomy is essential.

A lateral extracavitary corpectomy (LECA) includes laminectomy for access. If the laminectomy is performed just for the approach and access to the anterior spine, it should not be reported in addition to the LECA corpectomy – this is included.

In instances where a separate tumor is present, such as an extradural tumor, and a laminectomy is required to resect the posterior portion of the tumor, this may be reported separately and in addition to the lateral extracavitary corpectomy (LECA).

*This response is based on the best information available as of 7/17/25.