Exploration of Fusion (22830) – Two Questions Answered

Question:

Can we bill 22830 with modifier 50 because we explored both sides?

Question:

Can we bill 22830 for each level explored?

Answer:

No and no. CPT 22830, for exploration of spinal fusion, is used once regardless of the number of levels explored. It is assumed that you explore “both sides” of the spine which is typically considered a central structure from a coding standpoint.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 04/13/17.