CPT® Code 88311

Add-On Code

The decalcification procedure, represented by CPT® Code 88311, is a specialized technique used in the preparation of surgical or other specimens that contain calcium, such as bone, bone marrow, or other calcified tissues. This procedure is essential for enabling detailed examination of these specimens under a microscope, as the presence of calcium can obscure cellular details critical for diagnosis. The process begins with the specimen being immersed in an acid solution, which effectively dissolves the calcium content. Following this initial step, ion exchange is performed, where the specimen is treated with another solution designed to remove calcium ions. This dual approach ensures that the specimen is adequately decalcified, allowing for the subsequent preparation and examination of the tissue. The decalcified specimen can then be processed for histological analysis, facilitating accurate pathological evaluation and diagnosis.