22214 Incis 1 vertebral seg lumbar
Also known as: lumbar vertebral body incision drainage, lumbar spine abscess drainage
Incision and drainage of lumbar vertebral body and epidural space. Surgical drainage of infection or abscess in lumbar vertebral body with extension into epidural space.
In Plain Language
lumbar spine drainage surgery; lower back spine infection surgery
Clinical Context
Used for lumbar vertebral osteomyelitis or discitis with epidural abscess requiring surgical drainage. Anterior or posterolateral approach may be selected based on anatomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 20.49 |
| Total RVU | 20.49 |
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 20.49, 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 22214?
CPT 22214 (Incis 1 vertebral seg lumbar) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of lumbar vertebral body and epidural space. Surgical drainage of infection or abscess in lumbar vertebral body with extension into epidural space.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22214?
The work RVU for CPT 22214 is 20.49. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22214 used?
Used for lumbar vertebral osteomyelitis or discitis with epidural abscess requiring surgical drainage. Anterior or posterolateral approach may be selected based on anatomy.
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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.