CPT® Code 20938

Add-On Code

Autograft for spine surgery only (includes harvesting the graft); structural, bicortical or tricortical (through separate skin or fascial incision) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

The CPT® Code 20938 refers to the procedure of performing an autograft specifically for spine surgery. This procedure involves the use of an autologous bone graft, which is harvested from the patient's own body, ensuring compatibility and reducing the risk of rejection. The graft can be obtained from various locations, including the ribs, spinous process, or lamina, and may be harvested through the same incision made for the primary spinal surgery. Alternatively, it can be harvested from a remote site, such as the iliac crest, through a separate incision. The autologous bone graft is rich in osteoblasts, which are essential for bone growth, and contains bone morphogenic proteins that facilitate the formation of new bone. This graft provides a calcium scaffolding that supports the growth of new bone tissue. The procedure described by CPT® Code 20938 specifically involves the use of structural bone grafts that are bicortical or tricortical in nature, which means they consist of both cortical and cancellous bone. The harvested bone is shaped to fit the defect in the spine and is secured in place, often using screws or wires, to promote effective healing and integration with the surrounding bone tissue. This code is used in conjunction with the primary procedure code, as it is reported separately to account for the additional surgical effort involved in harvesting and placing the graft.