CPT® Code 22522

Deleted

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (bone biopsy included when performed), 1 vertebral body, unilateral or bilateral injection; each additional thoracic or lumbar vertebral body (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Percutaneous vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to stabilize compression fractures in the spine, often resulting from osteoporosis. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients suffering from vertebral body fractures, which can lead to significant pain and disability. In addition to treating osteoporosis-related fractures, percutaneous vertebroplasty may also be indicated for aggressive hemangiomas of the vertebral body and for providing palliative care in cases of pathological fractures caused by benign or malignant tumors in the spine. The procedure involves the precise injection of a bone cement mixture into the affected vertebral body to restore structural integrity and alleviate pain. The patient is typically positioned prone, allowing the physician to access the spine effectively. Fluoroscopic or CT imaging is utilized to accurately identify the vertebral level that requires intervention. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. If a biopsy is deemed necessary, a small incision is made to facilitate the collection of a bone sample, which is then sent for pathological examination. The vertebroplasty itself involves the careful injection of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement, mixed with a contrast medium, into the vertebral body, ensuring that the cement diffuses throughout the intertrabecular bone marrow space to provide optimal stabilization. This procedure can be performed unilaterally or bilaterally, depending on the clinical scenario, and is essential for improving the quality of life for patients with debilitating spinal conditions.