Cervical Fusion with Disc Removal

General Documentation Requirements for Cervical Fusion with Disc Removal and related services:

  • Condition requiring procedure;
  • Physical examination;
  • Duration/character/location/radiation of pain
  • Activities of Daily Living (ADL) limitations
  • Pertinent imaging reports
  • Operative report(s) (when available)
  • Conservative treatment modalities
    • Physical therapy (PT)
    • Occupational therapy (OT)
    • Injections
    • Medications
    • Assistive device use
    • Activity modification

Coverage Criteria

  • Information in this section will be available later

Codes

Code Description
22551 Fusion of spine bones with removal of disc at upper spinal column, anterior approach, complex, initial
22552 Fusion of spine bones with removal of disc in upper spinal column below second vertebra of neck, anterior approach, each additional space (add-on)

 

The Prior Authorization for Certain Hospital Outpatient Department Part B Associated Codes List is in Appendix B of the CMS OPD Operational Guide.

Resources

 

Last Updated Dec 09 , 2023