22556 Arthrd anterior ntrbd minutes dsc thc
Also known as: Anterior thoracic fusion with bone graft, Thoracic ACDF variant
Arthrodesis, anterior/anterolateral approach, including discectomy and/or corpectomy to decompress spinal cord and/or nerve roots, thoracic; with mineralized bone void filler/bone matrix, single interspaces.
In Plain Language
Mid-back fusion with bone graft; Thoracic spine bone grafting
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic spondylosis, tumor, or trauma requiring anterior decompression and fusion with bone graft material for enhanced fusion.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 24.08 |
| Total RVU | 24.08 |
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 24.08, 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 22556?
CPT 22556 (Arthrd anterior ntrbd minutes dsc thc) is a Surgery code. Arthrodesis, anterior/anterolateral approach, including discectomy and/or corpectomy to decompress spinal cord and/or nerve roots, thoracic; with mineralized bone void filler/bone matrix, single interspaces.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22556?
The work RVU for CPT 22556 is 24.08. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22556 used?
Used for thoracic spondylosis, tumor, or trauma requiring anterior decompression and fusion with bone graft material for enhanced fusion.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.