November 11, 2021

Question:
What do we code when we put cement around the pedicle screws, or inject cement into the pedicle screw tract, for augmentation due to osteoporosis or failed back syndrome? Can we code a vertebroplasty?

Answer:
Augmentation of pedicle screws is included in the instrumentation codes (e.g., +22840-+22844) and not separately reported with a vertebroplasty or any other code.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 11/11/21.