22551 Arthrd anterior ntrbdy cervical
Also known as: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, ACDF, anterior cervical fusion
Arthrodesis, anterior/anterolateral approach, including discectomy and/or corpectomy to decompress spinal cord and/or nerve roots, cervical; single interspaces.
In Plain Language
Neck spinal fusion removing disc; Anterior neck bone grafting surgery
Clinical Context
Most common cervical fusion procedure; used for spondylosis, disc hernia, or myelopathy; anterior approach allows direct disc removal and decompression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 24.38 |
| Total RVU | 24.38 |
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 24.38, this code ranks in the 88th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22551?
CPT 22551 (Arthrd anterior ntrbdy cervical) is a Surgery code. Arthrodesis, anterior/anterolateral approach, including discectomy and/or corpectomy to decompress spinal cord and/or nerve roots, cervical; single interspaces.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22551?
The work RVU for CPT 22551 is 24.38. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22551 used?
Most common cervical fusion procedure; used for spondylosis, disc hernia, or myelopathy; anterior approach allows direct disc removal and decompression.
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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.