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BackTable / MSK / Article
2025 Vertebral Augmentation CPT Code
Bryant Schmitz • Updated Jul 31, 2025 • 31 hits
Vertebral augmentation CPT code 22513 is used by interventional radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, and neurosurgeons when performing percutaneous vertebral augmentation of a thoracic vertebral body. This minimally invasive procedure is typically indicated for vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis, trauma, or malignancy. This article provides clarity on CPT 22513 to support accurate coding, billing, and documentation practices.
Table of Contents
(1) CPT Code for Vertebral Augmentation
(2) Detailed Description of CPT Code 22513
(3) Coding & Billing Considerations
(5) What is a CPT Code?
(6) Disclaimer
CPT Code for Vertebral Augmentation
CPT code 22513 is used to report percutaneous vertebral augmentation in the thoracic spine, which includes imaging guidance and the use of bone cement to stabilize the fracture.
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Detailed Description of CPT Code 22513
• CPT Code: 22513
• Code Description: Percutaneous vertebral augmentation, including cavity creation (e.g., balloon kyphoplasty) using mechanical device, one vertebral body; thoracic
• Inclusions: Imaging guidance (fluoroscopy or CT), cavity creation, bone cement injection, local anesthesia, and procedural supplies
• Exclusions: Additional levels (reported with 22515), lumbar or cervical procedures (use 22514 or 22512), sedation or general anesthesia, postoperative imaging, and evaluation and management services
Coding & Billing Considerations
• Report CPT 22513 for the first thoracic vertebral body treated in a session.
• For each additional thoracic or lumbar level treated, use add-on code 22515.
• Ensure imaging guidance is not separately billed, as it is included in CPT 22513.
• Use appropriate modifiers (e.g., -LT, -RT) if laterality is documented.
• Confirm that documentation includes the vertebral level treated and the technique used.
• Preoperative imaging and consultations should be coded separately if performed and documented appropriately.
What is a CPT Code?
CPT stands for Current Procedural Terminology. These codes are used by medical professionals to describe procedures and services performed. CPT codes are crucial for the billing process, allowing healthcare providers to communicate with insurance companies and other payers about the procedures performed.
Disclaimer
The information provided here reflects our understanding of the procedure(s) and/or device(s). This information should not be construed as authoritative. We encourage you to consult CMS.
Podcast Contributors
Dr. Sean Tutton
Dr. Sean Tutton is an interventional radiologist and clincial professor with UC San Diego in California.
Dr. Raj Narayanan
Dr. Raj Narayanan is the chief of interventional oncology at the Miami Cancer Institute in Miami, Florida.
Dr. Jacob Fleming
Dr. Jacob Fleming is a diagnostic radiology resident and future MSK interventional radiologist in Dallas, Texas.
Cite This Podcast
BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2025, January 17). Ep. 65 – Robotics Revolution in Interventional Radiology [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.
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