CPT Codes For MRI Brain Without Contrast | Short & Long Descriptions

Two CPT codes describe MRI brain without contrast procedures according to the CPT manual and another two describe brain MRI procedures that are performed without contrast material but followed by contrast material.

1. CPT Code 70551

Lay-term: CPT code 70551 is used when a healthcare provider performs an MRI of the brain, including the brain

stem, without the use of a contrast material. This procedure helps in capturing detailed images of the brain to diagnose various conditions.

Long description: Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, brain (including brain stem) without contrast material.

Short description: MRI brain without contrast.

2. CPT Code 70553

Lay-term: CPT code 70553 is reported when an MRI of the brain, including the brain stem, is performed first without contrast material, followed by another scan with contrast material. This helps in better visualization of certain areas or structures within the brain.

Long description: Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, brain (including brain stem) without contrast material, followed by contrast material(s) and further sequences.

Short description: MRI brain without and with contrast.

3. CPT Code 70557

Lay-term: CPT code 70557 is used when an MRI of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed during an open intracranial procedure. This is typically done to guide the surgical procedure and monitor the progress.

Long description: Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, brain (including brain stem and skull base), during open intracranial procedure, without contrast material.

Short description: MRI brain during open intracranial procedure without contrast.

4. CPT Code 70559

Lay-term: CPT code 70559 is reported when an MRI of the brain, including the brain stem and skull base, is performed during an open intracranial procedure, first without contrast material, followed by another scan with contrast material. This helps in better visualization of the surgical area and monitoring the progress of the procedure.

Long description: Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, brain (including brain stem and skull base), during open intracranial procedure, without contrast material, followed by contrast material(s) and further sequences.

Short description: MRI brain during open intracranial procedure without and with contrast.