22515 Percutaneous vertebral augmentation
Also known as: Vertebral augmentation add-on, Additional vertebra augmentation
Percutaneous vertebral augmentation (vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty), each additional vertebral segment beyond the first.
In Plain Language
Extra bone cement injection; Additional vertebra reinforcement
Clinical Context
Used as an add-on code when vertebral augmentation is performed on multiple vertebrae in the same session; common in extensive osteoporotic or metastatic disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.90 |
| Total RVU | 3.90 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 3.90, this code ranks in the 27th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22515?
CPT 22515 (Percutaneous vertebral augmentation) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous vertebral augmentation (vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty), each additional vertebral segment beyond the first.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22515?
The work RVU for CPT 22515 is 3.90. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, Spine Surgery.
When is CPT 22515 used?
Used as an add-on code when vertebral augmentation is performed on multiple vertebrae in the same session; common in extensive osteoporotic or metastatic disease.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.