CPT code 22526 denotes percutaneous intradiscal thermal therapy: a minimally invasive procedure in which a provider inserts a needle into an intervertebral disc and applies heat energy under fluoroscopic guidance to treat chronic back pain. The code captures a targeted, image‑guided intervention aimed at reducing discogenic pain when conservative treatments have failed. Nationally, this procedure is relevant due to the high prevalence of chronic low back pain and the growing emphasis on minimally invasive, cost‑effective pain management alternatives to open surgery.

Key payers considered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of coding intent and clinical context, typical sites of service, and the common modifiers associated with procedural billing. The publication provides benchmarks and policy summaries where available, clarifies common billing practices for image‑guided percutaneous disc ablation, and highlights areas insurers commonly review during medical necessity and coverage determinations. The content is designed to help revenue cycle, compliance, and clinical teams understand billing documentation expectations and payer coverage patterns for this specific intradiscal thermal therapy code.