22856 Tot disc arthrp 1ntrspc crv
Also known as: Cervical disc arthroplasty, Cervical artificial disc
Total disc arthroplasty (including endplate preparation, discectomy, and interbody device insertion), single interspace; cervical.
In Plain Language
Artificial disc replacement in neck; Motion-preserving neck surgery
Clinical Context
Used for cervical spondylosis with myelopathy or radiculopathy; artificial disc maintains cervical motion better than fusion.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 23.45 |
| Total RVU | 23.45 |
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 23.45, this code ranks in the 87th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22856?
CPT 22856 (Tot disc arthrp 1ntrspc crv) is a Surgery code. Total disc arthroplasty (including endplate preparation, discectomy, and interbody device insertion), single interspace; cervical.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22856?
The work RVU for CPT 22856 is 23.45. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22856 used?
Used for cervical spondylosis with myelopathy or radiculopathy; artificial disc maintains cervical motion better than 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.