22208 Incis spine 3 column adl seg
Also known as: additional vertebral segment arthroscopic I and D, per additional level arthroscopic drainage
Arthroscopic incision and drainage of vertebral column, each additional segment. Each additional vertebral segment requiring arthroscopic incision and drainage beyond the first segment.
In Plain Language
additional vertebra drainage with arthroscope
Clinical Context
Used as add-on code for each additional vertebra requiring arthroscopic drainage in multilevel infections. Typically appended to primary arthroscopic incision and drainage codes.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.42 |
| Total RVU | 9.42 |
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 9.42, this code ranks in the 56th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22208?
CPT 22208 (Incis spine 3 column adl seg) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopic incision and drainage of vertebral column, each additional segment. Each additional vertebral segment requiring arthroscopic incision and drainage beyond the first segment.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22208?
The work RVU for CPT 22208 is 9.42. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery.
When is CPT 22208 used?
Used as add-on code for each additional vertebra requiring arthroscopic drainage in multilevel infections. Typically appended to primary arthroscopic incision and drainage codes.
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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.