22210 Incis 1 vertebral seg cervical
Also known as: cervical vertebral body incision drainage, cervical spine abscess drainage
Incision and drainage of cervical vertebral body and epidural space. Surgical drainage of infection or abscess in cervical vertebral body with extension into epidural space requiring open approach.
In Plain Language
cervical spine drainage surgery; neck spine infection surgery
Clinical Context
Used for cervical vertebral osteomyelitis or discitis with epidural abscess requiring open drainage. Anterior approach typically used for vertebral body access combined with epidural space drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 24.75 |
| Total RVU | 24.75 |
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 24.75, this code ranks in the 88th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22210?
CPT 22210 (Incis 1 vertebral seg cervical) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of cervical vertebral body and epidural space. Surgical drainage of infection or abscess in cervical vertebral body with extension into epidural space requiring open approach.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22210?
The work RVU for CPT 22210 is 24.75. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22210 used?
Used for cervical vertebral osteomyelitis or discitis with epidural abscess requiring open drainage. Anterior approach typically used for vertebral body access combined with epidural space 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.