22526 Idet single level
Also known as: IDET, Electrothermal disc treatment
Percutaneous intradiscal electrothermal treatment (IDET) of intervertebral disc, single vertebral segment.
In Plain Language
Needle heat treatment of disc; Thermal disc modification
Clinical Context
Used for chronic discogenic lower back pain from internal disc disruption; applies heat via electrode to collagen in posterior annulus to achieve analgesic effect.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.70 |
| Total RVU | 5.70 |
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 5.70, this code ranks in the 38th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22526?
CPT 22526 (Idet single level) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous intradiscal electrothermal treatment (IDET) of intervertebral disc, single vertebral segment.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22526?
The work RVU for CPT 22526 is 5.70. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, Pain Management, Spine Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 22526 used?
Used for chronic discogenic lower back pain from internal disc disruption; applies heat via electrode to collagen in posterior annulus to achieve analgesic effect.
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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.