How Much Does Lumbar Spinal Fusion with Interbody Device (Posterior) Cost?
Also known as: Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum (CPT 22630)
Lumbar spinal fusion with an interbody device (cage) placed through a posterior (back) approach.
The total estimated cost of Lumbar Spinal Fusion with Interbody Device (Posterior) (CPT 22630) is $30,143 to $83,730, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $1,511. Average Medicare total payment: $33,492.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies for an inpatient hospital stay. Based on CMS data for SPINAL FUSION EXCEPT CERVICAL WITHOUT MCC (DRG 460), the average Medicare total payment is $33,492.
Patient Guide: Lumbar Spinal Fusion with Interbody Device (Posterior)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
The surgeon places a spacer (cage) filled with bone graft between the vertebrae from a back approach to restore disc height and promote fusion, along with screws and rods.
How Long Does It Take?
3-5 hours of surgery
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Severe disc degeneration, spondylolisthesis, recurrent disc herniation, spinal instability
How to Prepare
Stop smoking well before surgery (smoking prevents fusion). Fast after midnight. Prepare for 4-8 weeks of activity restrictions.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum
What Insurance Companies Actually Pay
Real negotiated rates from 15 hospitals across 6 states (from hospital price transparency filings)
| Insurance Company | Avg Rate | Range | Hospitals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aetna | $7,565 | $2,408 - $28,367 | 9 |
| United | $12,644 | $4,969 - $28,551 | 10 |
| Cigna | $24,131 | $2,496 - $68,725 | 7 |
| Humana | $11,060 | $2,204 - $40,969 | 8 |
| BCBS | $45,373 | $18,420 - $63,306 | 5 |
| Superior Health Plan | $3,948 | $2,369 - $27,630 | 4 |
| KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN, INC. | $38,387 | $22,222 - $69,590 | 5 |
| BCBS-TX | $2,309 | $1,238 - $3,169 | 2 |
| Anthem | $64,480 | $55,676 - $67,716 | 2 |
| BCBS - TN | $1,120 | $167 - $4,834 | 2 |
| Multiplan | $29,884 | $29,884 | 2 |
| BCBS - GA | $31,162 | $16,935 - $40,262 | 1 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (45.23) x CF ($33.40) = $1,511
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum is $1,511. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Arthrd pst tq 1ntrspc lum when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.