2025 CPT code 22864
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Spine surgery Musculoskeletal System Feed
Removal of a single artificial disc in the neck (cervical spine) that was previously implanted during a total disc arthroplasty procedure.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances. Consult CPT guidelines for specific modifier use.
The removal of the artificial disc is medically necessary due to persistent pain, implant failure, instability, infection, or other complications following the initial total disc arthroplasty.
The surgeon's responsibilities include patient preparation, anesthesia administration (if applicable), anterior neck incision through the previous scar, sharp and blunt dissection to expose the prevertebral space, identification of the target segment, loosening and removal of the artificial disc, irrigation of the area, hemostasis, instrument removal, and closure of the incision.
In simple words: The doctor removes a previously implanted artificial disc in the neck. This is done through a cut in the front of the neck, and only involves one area between two neck bones. The artificial disc is taken out, the area is cleaned and closed up.
Removal of a single total disc arthroplasty (artificial disc) via an anterior approach, involving a single interspace in the cervical spine.This procedure entails an anterior surgical approach to the cervical spine, exposing the prevertebral space and the previously implanted artificial disc.The screws securing the device are loosened, and the artificial disc is removed.The surgical site is then irrigated, hemostasis is achieved, and the incision is closed.
Example 1: A 55-year-old male patient with persistent neck pain and limited range of motion after a previous cervical total disc arthroplasty at C5-C6.The artificial disc is removed due to persistent pain and failure of the implant., A 62-year-old female patient who underwent a cervical total disc arthroplasty at C4-C5 two years prior. She now presents with recurrent neck pain, and imaging reveals a loosening of the artificial disc. The procedure is performed to address the instability and pain., A 48-year-old male with a history of cervical trauma and subsequent total disc arthroplasty.He presents with recurrent symptoms and imaging demonstrating infection around the artificial disc. Removal of the infected implant is done prior to further treatment.
Preoperative imaging (X-rays, CT scans, MRI), operative report detailing the surgical technique, and postoperative imaging.
** This code is specifically for the removal of a single, previously implanted artificial disc.If multiple discs or levels are involved, separate codes are required.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center