OPS-Code 5-038.0:
Operations on spinal cord, spinal cord membranes and spinal canal: Operations on the spinal liquor system: Attach an external drain
Cerebrospinal fluid was drained through a thin tube in your spinal region.
There are cavities with cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, around the brain and around the spinal cord. Among other things, the cerebrospinal fluid cushions the brain and spinal cord during knocks and also nourishes the brain cells.The cavity containing cerebrospinal fluid around the spinal cord is located within the vertebral column.
To drain cerebrospinal fluid, a needle is first inserted into this cavity. To do this, the skin at the injection site is numbed. The injection site is located between the vertebrae of the spine, typically in the lower back. A needle is then advanced through the skin into the fluid-filled space. A thin tube can then be inserted through the needle into this space. This tube can be left in place for several days to drain cerebrospinal fluid.
Additional indicator
If necessary, additional letters are appended to OPS codes to indicate which side of the body is affected.
- L: Left
- R: Right
- B: Both sides
Note
Your doctor will assist you with any health-related questions and explain the OPS code to you in a direct consultation if necessary.
Source
The explanation of the OPS code was provided by the non-profit organization “Was hab’ ich?” gemeinnützige GmbH on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG).