How To Use CPT Code 22810

CPT 22810 describes the arthrodesis procedure for spinal deformity, specifically for fusing four to seven vertebral segments. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 22810?

CPT 22810 is used to describe the arthrodesis procedure for spinal deformity, specifically for fusing four to seven vertebral segments. Arthrodesis, also known as spinal fusion, involves permanently joining the vertebrae to alleviate persistent pain caused by spinal deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 22810 is: ‘Arthrodesis, anterior, for spinal deformity, with or without cast 4 to 7 vertebral segments.’

3. Procedure

During the arthrodesis procedure, the provider makes an incision over the vertebrae to be addressed and mobilizes the periosteal and muscle attachments from the anterior surfaces of the spine in the area to be fused. The provider removes the annulus from the anterior portion of the disks and evacuates the nucleus from the disk space. Bone cutting instruments are used to remove material from the cartilaginous end plates and bony end plates of the vertebrae above and below. The removed bone material is then inserted into the disk space as a bone graft. After confirming the stability of the graft, the area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and the incision is closed in layers. In some cases, a body cast may be applied to immobilize the spine.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 22810 is used for patients with spinal deformities requiring arthrodesis of four to seven vertebral segments. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and may involve the use of bone grafts. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to anterior arthrodesis for spinal deformity.

5. When to use CPT code 22810

CPT code 22810 should be used when performing arthrodesis for spinal deformity, specifically for fusing four to seven vertebral segments. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 22810, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for arthrodesis
• Specific vertebral segments fused (four to seven)
• Description of the procedure performed
• Use of bone grafts, if applicable
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 22810, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately report the number of vertebral segments fused (four to seven) and any additional procedures or interventions performed. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by insurance payers or regulatory bodies.

8. Historical information

CPT 22810 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been several historical changes to the code, including being added and removed from the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare. It is important to stay updated on any changes or updates to the code.

9. Similar codes to CPT 22810

There are several similar codes to CPT 22810 that may be used for different spinal deformity procedures. These include:

• CPT 22802: Arthrodesis, posterior, for spinal deformity, with or without cast 7 to 12 vertebral segments
• CPT 22812: Arthrodesis, anterior, for spinal deformity, with or without cast, each additional vertebral segment (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
• CPT 22818: Arthrodesis, posterior, for spinal deformity, with or without cast, 1 to 3 vertebral segments
• CPT 22819: Arthrodesis, posterior, for spinal deformity, with or without cast, 4 to 7 vertebral segments

9. Examples

1. A patient with severe scoliosis undergoes arthrodesis of six vertebral segments to correct the spinal deformity.
2. An individual with kyphosis requires arthrodesis of five vertebral segments to alleviate pain and improve spinal alignment.
3. A patient with a spinal deformity undergoes arthrodesis of four vertebral segments using bone grafts for added stability.
4. An individual with a combination of scoliosis and kyphosis requires arthrodesis of seven vertebral segments to address the complex spinal deformity.
5. A patient with a spinal deformity undergoes arthrodesis of six vertebral segments, followed by the application of a body cast for immobilization.
6. An individual with a spinal deformity undergoes arthrodesis of five vertebral segments, with the procedure performed by a qualified healthcare professional.
7. A patient with a spinal deformity undergoes arthrodesis of four vertebral segments, with the procedure documented and signed by the healthcare professional performing the procedure.
8. An individual with a spinal deformity undergoes arthrodesis of seven vertebral segments, with the use of bone grafts to enhance fusion.
9. A patient with a spinal deformity undergoes arthrodesis of six vertebral segments, with the procedure accurately documented and reported for billing purposes.
10. An individual with a spinal deformity undergoes arthrodesis of five vertebral segments, with the procedure meeting the specific criteria outlined in CPT code 22810.