CPT® Code 20936

Add-On Code

Autograft for spine surgery only (includes harvesting the graft); local (eg, ribs, spinous process, or laminar fragments) obtained from same incision (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The CPT® Code 20936 refers to the procedure of performing an autograft specifically for spine surgery. This procedure involves the use of an autologous bone graft, which is a graft taken from the patient's own body. The harvesting of the graft occurs locally, meaning that the bone is obtained from nearby anatomical structures such as the ribs, spinous process, or laminar fragments, all through the same incision that is made for the primary spinal surgery. This approach allows for a more efficient surgical process, as it minimizes the need for additional incisions and potential complications associated with harvesting bone from a remote site. The autologous bone graft is rich in osteoblasts, which are the cells responsible for bone formation, and contains bone morphogenic proteins that promote new bone growth. Additionally, the graft provides a calcium scaffold that supports the development of new bone tissue. It is important to note that this code is used in conjunction with the primary procedure code, as it is listed separately to account for the additional work involved in harvesting and applying the graft during the spinal surgery.