22101 Remove part thorax vertebra
Also known as: thoracic vertebra ostectomy, partial thoracic corpectomy
Partial ostectomy of thoracic vertebra. Surgical removal of portion of thoracic vertebral body or elements for decompression, infection management, or tumor removal.
In Plain Language
thoracic spine bone removal; mid-back vertebra surgery
Clinical Context
Used for partial removal of thoracic vertebral body for decompression in myelopathy, removal of infected bone in osteomyelitis, or debulking of tumors. Maintains spinal stability better than total corpectomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.80 |
| Total RVU | 10.80 |
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 10.80, this code ranks in the 61st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22101?
CPT 22101 (Remove part thorax vertebra) is a Surgery code. Partial ostectomy of thoracic vertebra. Surgical removal of portion of thoracic vertebral body or elements for decompression, infection management, or tumor removal.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22101?
The work RVU for CPT 22101 is 10.80. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22101 used?
Used for partial removal of thoracic vertebral body for decompression in myelopathy, removal of infected bone in osteomyelitis, or debulking of tumors. Maintains spinal stability better than total corpectomy.
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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.