CPT code 22856 represents single-level cervical total disc arthroplasty, a surgical procedure that removes a diseased intervertebral disc, relieves neural compression by removing osteophytes, and implants an artificial disc to preserve motion. This code is clinically important as an alternative to fusion for select patients with degenerative disc disease and related cervical disc pathologies, and it has implications for device coverage, utilization patterns, and postoperative outcomes across the U.S.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical indications and typical settings, an explanation of how the code is used in billing, and what to expect from payer coverage policies. The publication also summarizes benchmarking metrics where available, recent policy trends affecting coverage and prior authorization, and notes on clinical context such as target diagnoses and procedural goals.

This material is intended to inform clinicians, coding professionals, and policy analysts about the role of CPT code 22856 in surgical spine practice and payer interactions at a national level. Data not available in the input is indicated where applicable.