22015 incision and drainage abscess p-spine l/s/ls
Also known as: lumbar spine abscess drainage, lumbosacral spinal abscess I and D
Incision and drainage of abscess of posterior spine, lumbar and/or sacral. Surgical opening and drainage of deep spinal infections involving posterior lumbar and/or sacral vertebral elements.
In Plain Language
drainage of lower spine infection; lumbar spine abscess surgery
Clinical Context
Used for posterior spinal infections of lumbar and sacral regions including vertebral osteomyelitis, discitis, or epidural abscess. Posterior approach provides access to posterior elements and epidural space.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.32 |
| Total RVU | 12.32 |
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. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 12.32, this code ranks in the 66th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22015?
CPT 22015 (incision and drainage abscess p-spine l/s/ls) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of abscess of posterior spine, lumbar and/or sacral. Surgical opening and drainage of deep spinal infections involving posterior lumbar and/or sacral vertebral elements.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22015?
The work RVU for CPT 22015 is 12.32. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22015 used?
Used for posterior spinal infections of lumbar and sacral regions including vertebral osteomyelitis, discitis, or epidural abscess. Posterior approach provides access to posterior elements and epidural space.
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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.