Exposure of Lumbar Spine

hi i couldn't get accurate code for the procedure: Exposure of lumbar spine.
Diagnosis is De-generative disc disease, L5-S1
here is the description of procedure:

...carefully using sponge sticks and other dissected devices, the retroperitoneum was entered, and the L5-S1 vertebral space was cleared off using a Bookwalter retractor and other self-retaining tools.

...then performed the remainder of the discectomy and artificial disk placement, and this was followed by achieving hemostasis, and closure of the abdominal wall fascia as well the overlying soft tissue and skin with Ethibond suture, as well as Vicryl and subcuticular Monocryl sutures respectively.

Please help

re: Exposure of Lumbar Spine

When my surgeon does an exposure of lumbar for an ortho doctor, I use 22558.

re: Exposure of Lumbar Spine

The approach, discectomy, placement of the artificial disc in the lumbar interspace, and closure are included in one CPT® code - 22857. If another surgeon has to do the approach then that surgeon and the spine surgeon both report 22857-62. There are no separate approach codes for this procedure.

Kim Pollock, RN, MBA, CPC
KarenZupko & Associates, Inc.
www.karenzupko.com