ALIF via Retroperitoneal Approach

Question:

I have been researching the coding for ALIF via retroperitoneal approach, and my research points to 22558 or an unlisted spine code; however, my provider states it should be CPT 22533. Can you please help?

Answer:

Thank you for your question!

CPT 22533, as suggested by your provider, refers to a lateral extracavitary arthrodesis (LECA), which is an anterior fusion performed from a posterior approach.

A CPT Assistant from October 2009 discusses the lateral extracavitary (LECA) approaches to the lumbar spine and explains how to differentiate LECA from other approaches.

For an anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) performed via a retroperitoneal approach, the correct CPT code is 22558.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 05/07/26.