Intervertebral Device 22853

Question:

I code for a neurosurgeon and he insists that I bill the cage code, 22853, for each interspace.  However, the CPT book lists as cage(s) therefore our thinking is that no matter how many are placed this code is only allowed one time per surgery.  His note states “C3-C4, C4-C5, C5-C6 anterior cervical interbody fusion using PEEK interbody spacers.”  So is it 22853 x 1 unit or 22853 x 3 units?

Answer:

Your neurosurgeon is correct. CPT code 22853 is reported per interspace to describe intervertebral biomechanical devices, including PEEK cages. The term is both single or plural, “cage(s)”, because sometimes there are two devices placed at a single spinal level.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 05/25/17.