22505 Manipulation of spine
Also known as: spinal manipulation under anesthesia, therapeutic spine mobilization
Manipulation of spine with anesthesia. Therapeutic mobilization of spinal segments under general or regional anesthesia for treatment of spinal stiffness, stenosis, or mobility restriction.
In Plain Language
spine stretching surgery; spinal mobilization procedure
Clinical Context
Used for spinal stiffness or restricted mobility not responsive to conservative treatment. Manipulation under anesthesia allows greater mobilization forces. Often used in revision cases or ankylosed spine.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.82 |
| Total RVU | 1.82 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.82, this code ranks in the 12th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22505?
CPT 22505 (Manipulation of spine) is a Surgery code. Manipulation of spine with anesthesia. Therapeutic mobilization of spinal segments under general or regional anesthesia for treatment of spinal stiffness, stenosis, or mobility restriction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22505?
The work RVU for CPT 22505 is 1.82. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 22505 used?
Used for spinal stiffness or restricted mobility not responsive to conservative treatment. Manipulation under anesthesia allows greater mobilization forces. Often used in revision cases or ankylosed spine.
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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.