22318 Treat odontoid fracture without graft
Also known as: odontoid fracture open reduction, dens fracture ORIF
Open treatment of odontoid process fracture without bone graft. Surgical reduction and fixation of odontoid (dens) fractures, which are fractures of the second cervical vertebra.
In Plain Language
second cervical vertebra fracture surgery; dens bone surgery
Clinical Context
Used for displaced odontoid fractures requiring surgical fixation for stability. Anterior or posterior screw fixation typical. Without bone graft indicates simple reduction achievable without supplemental graft material.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 22.15 |
| Total RVU | 22.15 |
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 22.15, this code ranks in the 85th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22318?
CPT 22318 (Treat odontoid fracture without graft) is a Surgery code. Open treatment of odontoid process fracture without bone graft. Surgical reduction and fixation of odontoid (dens) fractures, which are fractures of the second cervical vertebra.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22318?
The work RVU for CPT 22318 is 22.15. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22318 used?
Used for displaced odontoid fractures requiring surgical fixation for stability. Anterior or posterior screw fixation typical. Without bone graft indicates simple reduction achievable without supplemental graft material.
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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.