22212 Incis 1 vertebral seg thoracic
Also known as: thoracic vertebral body incision drainage, thoracic spine abscess drainage
Incision and drainage of thoracic vertebral body and epidural space. Surgical drainage of infection or abscess in thoracic vertebral body with extension into epidural space.
In Plain Language
thoracic spine drainage surgery; mid-back spine infection surgery
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic vertebral osteomyelitis or discitis with epidural abscess. Approach selected based on location of abscess and nature of infection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 20.47 |
| Total RVU | 20.47 |
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 20.47, this code ranks in the 83rd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22212?
CPT 22212 (Incis 1 vertebral seg thoracic) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of thoracic vertebral body and epidural space. Surgical drainage of infection or abscess in thoracic vertebral body with extension into epidural space.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22212?
The work RVU for CPT 22212 is 20.47. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22212 used?
Used for thoracic vertebral osteomyelitis or discitis with epidural abscess. Approach selected based on location of abscess and nature of infection.
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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.