New Spinal Cage Codes – 2017

Question:

I see that CPT code +22851, Application of intervertebral biomechanical device(s) to vertebral defect or interspace was deleted effective 1/1/17. What code do I now use?

Answer:

Three codes have been added to CPT 2017 to replace +22851:

• +22853 is used for a device, with fusion, with or without integrated anterior fixation
• +22854 is used for a device to fill a corpectomy defect, with fusion, with or without integrated anterior fixation
• +22859 is used for interbody device insertion without fusion

Note that +22853 and +22854 include the integral anterior instrumentation for device anchoring when that type of device is used. If you do not use integrated fixation, it is still the same codes, +22853 or +22854. If you use a separate plate, you may separately report a code such as +22845 when the plate meets the code criteria (e.g., the plate crosses the interspace, can provide independent stabilization, and can be used with any other type of interspace device).

*This response is based on the best information available as of 01/05/17.