20930 Allograft, morselized, or placement of osteopromotive material, for spine surgery only (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Name of the Procedure:

Allograft, Morselized, or Placement of Osteopromotive Material for Spine Surgery

Summary

During this procedure, a surgeon places bone graft material or substances that promote bone growth to aid in the healing and fusion of the spine. This is typically done in conjunction with other spinal surgeries to enhance the results.

Purpose

This procedure addresses spinal instability, deformities, or conditions that require spinal fusion. The goal is to promote bone healing and enhance spinal stability, often necessary for treating conditions like degenerative disc disease or scoliosis.

Indications

• Chronic back pain not relieved by conservative treatments
• Spinal deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis
• Spinal fractures or injuries
• Degenerative disc disease
• Conditions requiring spinal fusion for stability

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours before surgery.
• Medications may need to be adjusted or stopped as directed by the healthcare provider.
• Preoperative imaging and blood tests are often required to plan the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia is administered to the patient.
2. The surgeon makes an incision at the targeted site on the spine.
3. Existing damaged or degenerated bone is cleared away.
4. The allograft (donor bone tissue) or osteopromotive material is prepared.
5. The prepared material is placed into the surgical site to promote bone growth.
6. Additional stabilization, such as screws or rods, may be used if required.
7. The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the complexity and extent of the surgery.

Setting

The procedure is generally performed in a hospital's operating room under sterile conditions.

Personnel

• Orthopedic or spinal surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Surgical technologist

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Blood clots
• Graft rejection or failure
• Nerve damage
• Pain at the donor site (if autograft is used)
• Prolonged recovery period
• Limited mobility or stiffness

Benefits

• Improved spinal stability and alignment
• Reduction in pain and discomfort
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities
• Long-term improvement in spinal health

Recovery

• Post-operative hospital stay for monitoring.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Physical therapy may be recommended.
• Restrictions on physical activity to allow for healing.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor progress and fusion success.

Alternatives

• Conservative treatments such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, or medications.
• Minimally invasive fusion techniques.
• Spinal decompression surgery without grafts. Each alternative has its pros and cons, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

• Patients will be under anesthesia during the procedure and won't feel pain.
• Post-surgery, patients may experience discomfort and will receive pain management.
• Gradual improvement in mobility and reduction in pain as the spine heals.
• Close adherence to post-operative care instructions is crucial for optimal recovery.