22206 Incis spine 3 column thoracic
Also known as: thoracic spine arthroscopic incision drainage, minimally invasive thoracic I and D
Arthroscopic incision and drainage of thoracic vertebral column. Surgical drainage of infection or fluid collection of thoracic vertebral region using arthroscopic minimally invasive technique with full vertebral column visualization.
In Plain Language
minimally invasive thoracic spine drainage surgery; arthroscopic mid-back spine drainage
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic spine infections or fluid collections amenable to arthroscopic approach. Minimally invasive technique reduces soft tissue trauma while providing adequate visualization for drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 36.25 |
| Total RVU | 36.25 |
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 36.25, this code ranks in the 96th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22206?
CPT 22206 (Incis spine 3 column thoracic) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopic incision and drainage of thoracic vertebral column. Surgical drainage of infection or fluid collection of thoracic vertebral region using arthroscopic minimally invasive technique with full vertebral column visualization.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22206?
The work RVU for CPT 22206 is 36.25. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22206 used?
Used for thoracic spine infections or fluid collections amenable to arthroscopic approach. Minimally invasive technique reduces soft tissue trauma while providing adequate visualization for drainage.
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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.