CPT® Code 22511

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (bone biopsy included when performed), 1 vertebral body, unilateral or bilateral injection, inclusive of all imaging guidance; lumbosacral

Percutaneous vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to stabilize compression fractures in the spine, particularly those caused by osteoporosis. This procedure is also applicable for treating aggressive hemangiomas of the vertebral body and for providing palliative care for pathological fractures resulting from benign or malignant tumors in the spinal region. During the procedure, the patient is positioned prone, allowing the physician to access the affected vertebral body effectively. Imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or computed tomography (CT), is utilized to accurately identify the vertebral level that requires intervention. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. A spinal needle is then carefully advanced into the vertebral body, and additional local anesthesia is applied to the surrounding tissues. If a biopsy is indicated, a small incision is made to facilitate the insertion of a bone biopsy needle, which is used to obtain a sample of the vertebral body for pathological examination. Following the biopsy, the vertebroplasty is performed by injecting a mixture of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement and a contrast medium into the vertebral body. This cement serves to reinforce the structure of the fractured vertebra, with the contrast medium allowing for visualization of the cement distribution within the bone marrow space. The procedure can be performed unilaterally or bilaterally, depending on the specific clinical scenario, with the option for a second injection on the opposite side of the vertebral body for bilateral repairs. This comprehensive approach ensures effective stabilization of the vertebral body and alleviation of pain associated with spinal fractures.