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CPT 22804: Spinal Fusion (Arthrodesis) of 13+ Vertebral Segments
CPT code 22804 identifies an extensive spinal fusion (arthrodesis) procedure involving stabilization across 13 or more vertebral segments, frequently used to address severe spinal deformities such as scoliosis and kyphosis. Nationally, this code denotes high-complexity spine surgery with implications for surgical resource use, inpatient care needs, and postoperative immobilization, including possible body cast application. Key payers considered in typical coverage analyses include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise briefing on the clinical purpose and scope of the code, typical sites of service, and the policy and billing contexts that affect use of 22804. The publication outlines benchmarks and utilization considerations for extensive multilevel spinal fusion, summarizes common modifier usage where relevant, and highlights clinical context for coder and billing teams. It also addresses coverage and documentation themes that frequently arise with high-severity spine procedures. Data not provided in the input—such as specific payer policies, associated taxonomies, and ICD-10 diagnosis pairings—are noted as unavailable and are not inferred. This summary equips clinicians, coding specialists, and policy analysts with a clear understanding of what CPT code 22804 represents and the practical considerations that accompany billing for extensive multilevel arthrodesis.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 22804 describes an arthrodesis (spinal fusion) procedure performed to secure multiple vertebrae together. The code applies when fusion is carried out on 13 or more vertebral segments and may include application of a body cast. The primary clinical intent is to treat and alleviate persistent pain and structural instability associated with spinal deformities such as scoliosis or kyphosis.
Service type: Surgical spinal fusion (arthrodesis) involving extensive multilevel segments
Typical site of service: Inpatient or outpatient hospital surgical setting where complex spine surgery and postoperative immobilization (including body cast application) are performed.