(2022) How To Code MRI – CPT Codes & Billing Guidelines

Are you looking for the MRI CPT codes? MRI is a medical abbreviation of magnet resonance imaging and used to evaluate a patient condition with cross sectional images.

MRI CPT codes are divided in three categories; MRI with contrast, MRI without contrast and MRI with and without contrast. This article outlines the most relevant MRI CPT codes and explains how they should be billed.

What Is MRI And How Is It Used?

Magnet resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the advanced techniques from the radiology department that is used to evaluate the patient condition at a deeper level.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a radiation-free and noninvasive technique to produce high quality cross-sectional images of the inside of the human body in multiple planes.

MRI uses the natural electro-magnetic properties of the H-atoms in our human body that emit radio-frequency signals when they are exposed to radio waves within a strong EM field.

These signals are then processed and converted by using advanced technology into high-resolution images.

Patients with any metallic, electronic implants or a patient with any foreign bodies present in body should not be exposed to MRI.

The patient must be still when lying on a motorized circular table within the large and circular MRI tunnel. A sedative can be administered to enhance the image properties.

An MRI can assist in the differential diagnosis of mediastinal and retroperitoneal masses, including abnormalities of the large vessels such as aneurysms and dissection of vessels.

Where a clinical need exists to visualize the parenchyma of solid organs to detect anatomic disruption or neoplasia, this can be accomplished in the liver, urogenital system, adrenal and pelvic organs without contrast materials.

When an MRI is considered reasonable and necessary, the use of paramagnetic contrast material may be covered as part of the study.

Coding Guidelines For MRI CPT Codes

The phrase “with contrast” is used in the MRI CPT codes for procedures that are performed using contrast material for imaging enhancement and represents contrast material administered intravascular, intra-articularly or intrathecal route of administration.

Gadolinium is the contrast that is mostly coded for the MRI CPT codes. For intra-articular injection, use the appropriate joint injection CPT code that is present in musculoskeletal system.

Whenever radiographic arthrography is performed, also use the code for arthrography supervision and interpretation related to appropriate joint (which does includes fluoroscopy).

Use the appropriate joint injection MRI code if computed tomography or/and magnetic resonance (MR) arthrography are performed without radiographic arthrography.

Imaging can be required during the completion of certain procedures or imaging procedures may also be required during surgical procedures to evaluate the imaged area.

Many services that include image guidance are not separately reportable when it is included in the base service, that is shown in AMA CPT code section guidelines.

All imaging guidance CPT codes for MRI require:

1. documentation of imaging guidance in the patient record; and
2. compete description of imaging guidance in the procedure report with signature. 

However, whenever a procedure or service that is marked as a “separate procedure” is carried out independently or distinct from any other procedures/services provided at that time, it can be reported by itself.

It can also be repeated as additional procedure by appending modifier 59 to the specific “separate procedure” code to indicate that this procedure should not be considered to be a component of another procedure on claim.

As Medical coder, it is important to know the sequence of Medical chart of the MRI CPT codes. You should be able to know where you will have to look for each point and what the report looks like.

Some of the important key elements in the medical charts include:

• Date of service, Name of patient and place of service (All of these mentioned at top).
• Provider name (written at top and bottom of report), signature (mostly used at end).
• Name of Service like MRI of lumbar spine (right after the patient details and date).
• Indication for which service is being performed (you are only allowed to code from indication if there is no established diagnosis exist at the end of assessment).
• Operation of service with details where you will find if the procedure described in main title is exactly the same or different from what is mentioned in details. Mostly, contrast injection or details of terminated procedure are found in this section.
• Assessment and findings.

Modifiers For MRI

MRI tests are performed and supervised by doctor. Technical and professional component is integral part of coding these procedures.

Modifiers used for MRI are;

• Modifier 76;
• Modifier 26;
• Modifier TC; and
• Modifier 77.

Another important feature is contrast material. The MRI CPT code reported from MRI section is determined by whether a contrast material is used or not and how it is used.

The following modifiers can be used to report an MRI code with contrast;

• Modifier 50;
• Modifier RT; and
• Modifier LT.

Make sure that you follow the payers’ guidelines as some insurance may require you to use modifier RT and modifier LT on two separate lines instead of modifier 50.

Whenever multiple modifiers need to be used in single claim, make sure to choose the correct sequencing of modifiers before billing the claim.

MRI section often require us to use modifier 26 and modifier RT, modifier LT or modifier 59.

The following sequence of modifiers should be used. Pricing modifiers should be sequenced first (e.g. modifier 26, and modifier TC).

Informational modifiers should be used secondary (e.g. modifier 59 and modifier 76) and literality modifiers should be used lastly, like modifier RT or modifier LT. Follow Noridian for modifier guidelines.

CPT Code For MRI Lumbar Spine

There are three different MRI CPT codes that can be used to bill lumbar spine. The 72148 CPT code can be reported for MRI without contrast material.

The 72149 CPT code can be used for lumbar spine MRI with contrast and the 72150 CPT code for lumbar spine MRI without contrast material followed by contrast material. Underneath are the description and coding guidelines.

MRI Lumbar Spine Without Contrast – CPT Code 72148

CPT 72148 can be used to report magnet resonance imaging (MRI) for lumbar spine. This CPT code may only be reported without contrast material/materials.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of spinal canal and contents. Lumbar; without contrast material or materials.

MRI Lumbar Spine With Contrast – CPT Code 72149

CPT 72149 may only be be used to report magnet resonance imaging (MRI) for lumbar spine when contrast material or materials are used.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of spinal canal and contents. Lumbar with contrast material or materials.

MRI Lumbar Spine With Or Without Contrast – CPT Code 72150

CPT 72150 may only be used to report magnet resonance imaging (MRI) for lumbar spine without contrast material and followed by contrast materials.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI). Spinal canal and contents. Lumbar, without contrast material followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Billing Guidelines & Reimbursement

The reimbursement amount for professional services for CPT 72148, CPT 72149 and CPT 72150 is around $72.

Read the medical report summary carefully to reporting a code for MRI lumbar.

CPT Codes For MRI Brain And Pituitary

Brain and pituitary MRI can be coded with three CPT codes.

The 70551 CPT code can be used for MRI brain or pituitary without contrast.

The 70552 CPT code can be reported for MRI with contrast.

The 70553 CPT code can be billed for brain or pituitary MRI with and without contrast.

Underneath the descriptions and coding guidelines.

70551 CPT Code

CPT 70551 can be reported for magnet resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and pituitary, including the brain stem.

TIP: You can find the complete billing guide for CPT code 70551 here.

MRI Brain Or Pituitary With Contrast – CPT Code 70552

CPT 70552 can be reported for magnet resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and pituitary, including the brain stem. This CPT code may only be reported with contrast material/materials.

Description: MRI (magnet resonance imaging) imaging, brain including brain stem. With contrast material or materials.

70553 CPT Code For MRI Brain Or Pituitary With And Without Contrast

CPT 70553 can be reported for magnet resonance imaging (MRI) imaging of the brain and pituitary, including the brain stem.

This CPT code may only be reported without contrast material. Followed by contrast material or materials and further sequences.

70553 CPT code description: MRI (magnet resonance imaging) imaging of the brain. Including brainstem. Without contrast material and followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

We have written a separate article about the 70553 CPT code. The billing guidelines for CPT 70553 can be found here.

MRI IAC CPT Code

The 70553 CPT code will only be accepted for MRI brain for IAC readings. The 70551 CPT code and the 70552 CPT code will be denied when billed for IAC study.

It is allowed to bill two MRI codes for the same session if two different studies (e.g. when a brain MRI and IAC study is performed on same day). Use in this case modifier 76 instead of modifier 59.

MRI Pituitary CPT Code

Use the previous MRI brain codes to report pituitary. Contrast MRI is the best way to evaluate the gland properly.

Lesion and other abnormal degenerative studies can be identified by MRI brain.

Patients with pacemakers, CF or neuro-active devices are not allowed to have an MRI because of the associated complications.

Contrast material can be harmful to some patients. Make sure that the provider is following the correct practice. 

Billing Guidelines & Reimbursement

CPT 70551, CPT 70552 and CPT 70553 have a technical and a professional component. Report the professional component with modifier 26 and the technical component with modifier TC.

Report the complete procedure (technical and professional) without a modifier.

In most facility settings doctors are only allowed to bill professional services as the technical component is owned by facility.

This can be billed under part A claims. The total amount is $220.52 and $72 dollars are for professional services performed by the doctor.

MRI Knee, Ankle, Mid-foot, Wrist and Hip CPT Codes

The following CPT codes can be used to code MRI for the knee, ankle, mid-foot, wrist and the hip.

The 73721 CPT code can be reported for MRI without contrast material/materials, the 73722 CPT code for MRI with contrast material/materials, and the 73723 CPT for MRI without contrast material/materials followed by contrast material/materials.

Underneath are the descriptions of the CPT codes.

TIP: We have written a billing guide for the CPT codes for Knee MRI

MRI Knee, Ankle, Mid-foot, Wrist, and Hip Without Contrast – CPT Code 73721

The 73721 CPT code can be used to report MRI without contrast for the knee, ankle, mid-foot, wrist and the hip. Any joint of lower extremity can be billed with this CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of any joint of lower extremity. Without contrast material or materials.

TIP: We have written an article about CPT code 73721. You can find the billing guidelines for CPT 73721 here.

MRI Knee, Ankle, Mid-foot, Wrist and Hip With Contrast- CPT Code 73722

CPT code 73722 can be used to report MRI with contrast for the knee, ankle, mid-foot, wrist and the hip. Any joint of lower extremity can be billed with this CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of any joint of lower extremity. With contrast material or materials.

MRI Knee, Ankle, Mid-foot, Wrist And Hip With And Without Contrast – CPT Code 73723

CPT code 73723 can be used to report MRI without contrast material/materials for the knee, ankle, mid-foot, wrist and the hip followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Any joint of lower extremity can be billed with this CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of any joint of lower extremity. Without contrast material/materials and followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Coding Guidelines

Report modifier 76 if the same CPT code has to be reported twice. For example if an MRI of the knee and the hip is provided in the same session.

MRI Shoulder CPT Codes

CPT 73721, CPT 73722 and CPT 73723 can be used to report MRI shoulder. Descriptions of these CPT codes can be found above.

MRI Right Shoulder CPT Code

Append modifier RT together with the CPT code. The 73721 CPT code can be billed for right shoulder MRI without contrast. You can find the billing guidelines for CPT 73721 here.

CPT 73722 can be used to report right shoulder MRI with contrast and CPT 73723 can be reported if no contrast materials are used followed by contrast material(s).

MRI Left Shoulder CPT Code

Append modifier LT together with the CPT code. Append modifier LT together with the appropriate CPT code.

The 73721 CPT code can be billed for left shoulder MRI without contrast. CPT 73722 can be used to report left shoulder MRI with contrast. CPT 73723 can be reported if no contrast materials are used followed by contrast material(s).

Billing Guidelines

Modifier 59 or modifier 77 can be used to report MRI shoulder if a procedure is repeated on same day by same provider.

Append modifier RT if only the right shoulder is checked. Use the RT modifier for MRI for the right shoulder. Append modifier 50 if the MRI service is performed for both shoulders. Some payers require modifier RT and LT separately instead of modifier 50.

MRI Shoulder Arthrogram CPT Code 23350

The 23350 CPT code can be billed to report MRI shoulder arthrogram. A series of images is obtained in this procedure by injection of a contrast material through injection that is administered under local anesthetics.

The 23350 CPT code is commonly used in the diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear. The patient is positioned supine on the x-ray table. The description of the CPT code is as follows.

Description: Injecting procedure for shoulder joint arthrography or/and enhanced MRI/CT shoulder arthrography

Billing Guidelines And Reimbursement

Append modifier 26 for professional services if performed under supervision of physician.

Breast MRI CPT Codes

The following four CPT codes can be used to report a breast MRI. The 77046 CPT code can be billed for unilateral breast MRI without contrast.

The 77947 CPT code can be reported for bilateral breast MRI without contrast. The 77048 CPT code may be used when unilateral breast MRI is performed including computer aided detection.

The last code is CPT 77049. This code may be used when bilateral breast MRI is performed including computer aided detection.

Unilateral Breast MRI Without Contrast – CPT Code 77046

Report CPT 77046 for unilateral breast MRI without contrast. Underneath the description of this CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast. Unilateral. Without contrast material.

Unilateral Breast MRI With And Without Contrast Inc. CAD – CPT Code 77048

Report CPT 77048 for unilateral breast MRI with and without contrast when CAD (computer-aided detection) is used. Underneath the description of this CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast. Unilateral. With and without contrast material/materials. Including CAD real-time lesion detection, pharmacokinetic analysis and characterisation.

Bilateral Breast MRI Without Contrast – CPT Code 77047

Report CPT 77047 for bilateral breast MRI without contrast. Underneath is the description of this CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast. Bilateral. Without contrast material.

Bilateral Breast MRI With And Without Contrast Inc. CAD – CPT Code 77049

Report CPT 77049 for bilateral breast MRI with and without contrast when CAD (computer-aided detection) is used. Underneath is the description of this CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast. Bilateral. With and without contrast material/materials. Including CAD real-time lesion detection, pharmacokinetic analysis and characterisation.

Coding Guidelines

The 77049 CPT code and the 77047 CPT code do not require modifiers. Modifier RT or modifier LT can be billed with the 77048 CPT code and the 77046 CPT code.

Cervical Spine MRI CPT Codes

Cervical spine MRI can be billed with the following CPT codes. The 72141 CPT code can be used for cervical spine MRI without contrast material.

The 72142 CPT code can be billed for cervical spine MRI with contrast material/materials and the 72156 CPT code can be used for cervical spine MRI without contrast followed by contrast material/materials.

Cervical Spine MRI Without Contrast – CPT 72141

Use the 72141 CPT code when billing cervical spine MRI without contrast.

Description: Cervical. Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the spinal canal and contents. Without contrast material.

Cervical Spine MRI With Contrast – CPT 72142

Use the 72142 CPT code when billing cervical spine MRI with contrast.

Description: Cervical. Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the spinal canal and contents. With contrast material.

Cervical Spine MRI With Or Without Contrast – CPT 72156

Use the 72156 CPT code when billing cervical spine MRI with contrast followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Description: Cervical. Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the spinal canal and contents. Without contrast material followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Reimbursement

Make sure to follow the guidelines from LCD of state that is provided by specific vendor to prove medical necessity of the MRI of the cervical spine.

MRI Prostate/Pelvis CPT Codes

There are three CPT codes that can be used to bill MRI prostate/pelvis. CPT 72195 CPT code can be used to bill MRI prostrate/pelvis without contrast material.

The CPT code 72196 can be used to bill MRI prostate/pelvis with contrast material(s) and CPT 72197 can be used to report MRI prostate/pelvis without contrast material(s) followed by contrast material/materials.

The add-on code that can be used is CPT 77021.

MRI Prostate/Pelvis Without Contrast – CPT Code 72195

The 72195 CPT code can be used to report MRI prostate/pelvis without contrast. Underneath the description of the CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the pelvis. Without contrast material/materials.

MRI Prostate/Pelvis With Contrast – CPT Code 72196

The 72196 CPT code can be used to report MRI prostate/pelvis with contrast. Underneath the description of the CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the pelvis. With contrast material/materials.

MRI Prostate/Pelvis With And Without Contrast – CPT Code 72197

The 72197 CPT code can be used to report MRI prostate/pelvis without contrast followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences. Underneath the description of the CPT code.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the pelvis. Without contrast material/materials followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Add-on CPT Code 77021

The add-on CPT code 77021 can be billed for MRI of prostate when RI is used with biopsy of prostate.

This code is described as an add-on code and can not be used without primary CPT code of biopsy of prostate. Billing an add-on code without primary CPT will be denied by payer.

MRI Sacrum CPT Code

MRI pelvis can also be used for sacrum MRI as this area anatomically falls in the pelvis section.

Codes selection, guidelines and charge rate are same as MRI pelvis. Only diagnosis can be different.

Coding Guidelines

Modifier 26 and TC is applicable for CPT 72195, CPT 72196, CPT 72197 and add-on code CPT 77021.

Cardiac MRI CPT Code

The first two CPT codes can be used for cardiac MRI without contrast material. The 75557 CPT code can be billed for cardiac MRI without contrast material.

The 75559 CPT code can be reported if cardiac MRI is performed without contrast material but with stress imaging.

The second two CPT can be used for cardiac MRI with contrast material. The 75561 CPT code can be billed for cardiac MRI without contrast material followed by contrast material.

CPT 75563 can be used it the procedure is performed with stress imaging. The add-on code is CPT 75565.

What is Cardiac MRI?

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a radiation-free and noninvasive technique that produces high quality, detailed, three-dimensional imaging of complex congenital heart defects, as well as functional cardiac analysis.

MRI uses the natural electro-magnetic properties of the H-atoms in our human body that emit radiofrequency signal when are exposed to radio waves within a strong EM field.

These signals are then processed and converted by the using advanced technology into high-resolution images.

75557 CPT Code Description

CPT 75557 can be billed for cardiac MRI without contrast material. This CPT code is described as follows.

Description: Without contrast material. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for morphology and function.

75559 CPT Code Description

CPT 75559 can be billed for cardiac MRI without contrast material and with stress imaging. This CPT code is described as follows.

Description: Without contrast material. With stress imaging. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for morphology and function.

75561 CPT Code Description

CPT 75561 can be used to bill cardiac MRI without contrast material followed by contrast material/materials.

This CPT code can only be billed if the procedure is performed without stress imaging. The description of this CPT code is as follows:

Description: Without contrast material/materials followed by contrast material(s) and further sequences. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for morphology and function.

75563 CPT Code Description

CPT 75563 can be billed to report cardiac MRI without contrast material/materials followed by contrast material/materials but only if this procedure is performed with stress imaging. Underneath the description.

Description: With stress imaging. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for morphology and function. Without contrast material/materials and followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

75565 CPT Code Description

CPT 75565 can only be reported for velocity flow mapping as add-on code for cardiac MRI. The description is as follows:

Description: Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for velocity flow mapping.

Billing Guidelines

The A9579 CPT code can be billed as supply code for contrast material and is billed per 1 ML. One unit of contrast will be billed as one unit of CPT A9579.

Only append modifier 26 if reporting only the professional component. Append modifier TC to report the technical component. Report the complete procedure without a modifier.

MRI Foot CPT Code And Lower Extremity

MRI Foot falls in non-joint category of CPT section about lower extremity. The only exception is ‘mid-foot’ MRI and are defined above. The codes for MRI foot are CPT 73718, CPT 73719 and CPT 73720. Underneath the descriptions and billing guidelines.

73718 CPT Code Description

CPT 73718 can be billed for low extremity other than joins without contrast material or materials. The description is as follows.

Description: MRI of low extremity other than joints. Without contrast material or materials.

73719 CPT Code Description

CPT 73719 can be reported for low extremity other than joins with contrast material or materials. The description is can be found underneath.

Description: MRI of low extremity other than joints. With contrast material or materials.

73720 CPT Code Description

CPT 73720 can be reported for low extremity other than joins without contrast material or materials and followed with contrast material/materials. The description is can be found underneath.

Description: MRI. Low extremity other than joints. Without contrast material/materials followed by contrast material/materials.

Reimbursement & Billing Guidelines

CPT 73718, CPT 73710 and CPT 73720 can be reimbursed if billed correctly. CPT 73718, CPT 73718 and CPT 73720 have both a technical and professional component.

If performed bilaterally, some insurances require that the service must be reported twice with appending modifier 50 to the second code while other insurances require service should be identified by only once with modifier 50 appended.

Check with individual payers. Modifier 50 shows that a procedure was performed identically on the opposite side of the body where literality is involved.

Append modifier 26 to report only the professional component. Append modifier TC if you report only the technical component. If you are reporting the complete procedure, submit the claim without any modifier.

MRI Head CPT Code

MRI for the head can be billed with three CPT codes. The 70544 CPT code can be billed for MRI for the head without contrast material.

The 70545 CPT code can be billed if the MRI for the head is performed with contrast material and the last CPT code 70546 may be coded when the MRI is performed without contrast material and is followed by contrast material and further sequences.

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is often performed with angiogram to provide is a detailed image of blood flow and vessel structures of the head.

The study compares images with and without a contrast agent. Three codes for MRI head are as follows.

Head MRI Without Contrast Material – CPT Code 70544

The 70544 CPT code can be billed if magnetic resonance imaging (MIR) is performed of the head without contrast material.

TIP: You can find the complete billing guide for CPT code 70544 here.

Head MRI With Contrast Material – CPT Code 70545

The 70545 CPT code can be billed if magnetic resonance imaging (MIR) is performed of the head with contrast material or materials.

Description: Magnetic resonance angiography (MRI) of the head. With contrast material or materials.

Head MRI With And Without Contrast Material – CPT Code 70546

The 70546 CPT code can be billed if magnetic resonance imaging (MIR) is performed of the head without contrast material or materials and followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Description: Magnetic resonance angiography (MRI) of the head. Without contrast material or materials. Followed by contrast material or materials and further sequences.

MRI Neck CPT Codes

Neck MRI can be code with three different CPT codes.

The 70547 CPT code can be reported for Neck MRI without contrast material/materials.

The 70548 CPT code can be reported for Neck MRI with contrast material/materials.

The 70549 CPT can be reported for Neck MRI without contrast material/materials followed by contrast materials.

Underneath the descriptions and coding guidelines.

Neck MRI Without Contrast Material – CPT Code 70547

CPT 70547 can be reported for magnetic resonance angiography (MRI) of the neck without contrast materials.

Description: (MRI) Magnetic resonance angiography of the neck. Without contrast material/materials.

Neck MRI With Contrast Material – CPT Code 70548

CPT 70548 can be reported for magnetic resonance angiography (MRI) of the neck with contrast materials.

Description: Magnetic resonance angiography (MRI) of the neck. With contrast material/materials.

Neck MRI With And Without Contrast Material – CPT Code 70549

CPT 70549 is the last of the CPT codes and can be reported for magnetic resonance angiography (MRI) of the neck without contrast materials followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Description: Magnetic resonance angiography (MRI) of the neck. Without contrast material/materials. Followed by contrast material/materials and further sequences.

Reimbursement

Follow the these guidelines while billing MRI for the neck:

Choose appropriate modifier. CCI bundling does not happen if multiple codes are billed.

Follow the list of ICD 10 diagnosis from LCD to prove medical necessity.

Allowed POS is billed for the neck MRI code.

Make sure the professional, technical and global requirements have been met.

CPT Code For MRI Abdomen(Kidney/Liver)

MRI abdomen (used for kidney MRI and liver MRI as well) can be described with CPT 74181, CPT 74182 and CPT 74183.

Make sure to code a CPT code for MRI abdomen and kidney if you code MRI Cholangiopancreatography. The coding guidelines for MRCP can be found below.

The 74181 CPT code can be used for MRI of the kidney and abdomen without contrast material/materials.

CPT 74182 may be billed when a MRI is the abdomen is performed with contrast material or materials and the last CPT code 74183 can be billed without contrast material/materials followed with contrast materials/materials and further sequences.

Abdomen (Kidney/Liver) MRI Without Contrast Material – CPT Code 74181

The 74181 CPD code can be billed for MRI of the abdomen (used for kidney MRI and liver MRI as well) without contrast material or materials and is defined as follows:

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the abdomen. Without contrast material or materials.

Abdomen (Kidney/Liver) MRI With Contrast Material – CPT Code 74182

The 74182 CPT is the second option while coding abdomen MRI and can be used for kidney MRI and liver MRI as well. This CPT code may be reported when MRI of the abdomen is performed with contrast material or materials and is defined as follows:

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the abdomen. With contrast material or materials.

Abdomen (Kidney/Liver) MRI With And Without Contrast Material – CPT Code 74183

The last CPT code that can be used for abdomen MRI is CPT 74183.

This CPT code can also be for kidney MRI and liver MRI as well and may be billed when the MRI of the abdomen is performed without contrast material/materials and is followed by contrast material/materials. CPT 74183 is defined as follows.

Description: Magnetic resonance (for example proton) imaging (MRI) of the abdomen. Without contrast material or materials and followed by with contrast material or materials and further sequences.

CPT Codes For MRI Thoracic Spine

CPT 72146, CPT 72147 and CPT 72157 can be used to bill an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the interior of the middle spine (spinal canal).

These codes includes three-dimensional imaging that measures response atomic nuclei in soft tissues to high-frequency radio waves when strong magnetic field applied.

A contrast agent may be given to enhance the images. Underneath are the descriptions and billing guidelines.

72146 CPT Description

CPT 72146 can be used to bill MRI thoracic spine without the injection of contrast material. Underneath the description.

Description: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for thoracic spinal canal area. Without the injection of contrast material.

72147 CPT Description

CPT 72147 can be used to bill MRI thoracic spine with the injection of contrast material. Underneath is the description.

Description: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for thoracic spinal canal area with injection of contrast material.

72157 CPT Description

CPT 72157 can be used to bill MRI thoracic spine with and without the injection of contrast material. Underneath is the description.

Description: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the thoracic spinal canal area without and then with injection of contrast material.

Billing Guidelines & Reimbursement

CPT 72146 and CPT 72147 have both a technical and professional component. If you want to report only the professional component, please append modifier 26.

If there is need of reporting only the technical component, append modifier TC. submit without any modifier if you are reporting the complete procedure.

MRI Chest And Brachial Plexus CPT Codes

The CPT codes for Chest MRI and Brachial Plexus MRI are CPT 71550, CPT 71551 and CPT 71552.

The 71550 CPT code can be used to bill Chest MRI without the injection of contrast material.

The 71551 CPT code can be used for MRI with the injection of contrast material.

The last CPT code is 71552 and can be used to code MRI for chest and brachial plexus with and without the injection of contrast material.

71550 CPT Code Description

CPT 71550 can be used for chest and brachial plexus MRI when the procedure is performed without the injection of contrast material.

This CPT code is described as follows:

Description: Without injection of contrast material. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of chest to evaluate hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

71551 CPT Code Description

CPT 71551 can be billed when a chest MRI procedure is performed. This code can only be billed if the procedure is performed with the injection of contrast material. Underneath is the description.

Description: With injection of contrast material. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of chest for like to evaluate hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

71552 CPT Code Description

CPT 71552 is a code that can be billed if a brachial plexus or chest MRI procedure is performed without and then with injection of contrast material. The description is written below.

Description: Without and then with injection of contrast material. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of chest to evaluate hilar and mediastinal lymphadenopathy.

Billing And Reimbursement

Procedures codes CPT 71550, CPT 71551 and CPT 71552 have both a technical and professional component.

Append modifier 26 for the professional component. Append modifier TC for the technical component and report no modifier for the complete procedure.

MRI Enterography CPT Codes

Enterography is the MRI imaging of mainly focused on small intestine by using contrast material. No separate CPT codes do exist for that purpose.

Use the 74183 CPT code from the abdominal section and the 72197 CPT code from the pelvis section with respective 3-D imaging to bill the whole charge for MRI enterography. Make sure to choose the diagnosis from small intestine.

Whole Body MRI CPT Code

There is no CPT code to bill whole body MRI. Medically it is stated as a not preferable service to provide as most of insurances do not support this service.

MRI of whole body means more exposure of human body to radiation and outcomes of the service is not that much beneficial as much to the exposure to radiations.

The best way to bill whole body MRI is with CPT 76498. This code is described as follows:

76498 CPT Code

Description: Unlisted magnetic resonance procedure.

A medical report to explain medical necessity is needed to explain why why the whole body imaging became necessary. Insurances require medical report more often for these unlisted services.

3D Imaging CPT Codes

The 76377 CPT code and the 76376 CPT code can be billed for 3D imaging. Underneath the descriptions of the CPT codes for 3D imaging.

76377 CPT Code

CPT 76377 is requiring image post process on an independent WS. 3-dimensional (3D) rendering with interpretation and reporting of CT, Ultrasound, MRI or other tomographic modality. With image post process under concurrent supervision.

TIP: You can find the complete billing guide for CPT code 76377 here.

76376 CPT Code Description

CPT 76376 is is not requiring image post-process on an independent WS. 3-dimensional (3D) rendering with interpretation and reporting of CT, ultrasound, MRI or other tomographic modality with image post process under concurrent supervision.

Billing Guidelines For CPT 76376 & CPT 76376

If you look at the symbol provided by AMA against these codes, you will be able to see the (+) sign which shows these codes can be billed as an add-on.

An add-on code is used with primary procedures; in this case the 74181 CPT code, the 74182 CPT code and the 74186 CPT code are primary procedures for these add-on codes.

3T MRI CPT Code

These are advanced MRI services that are used to get volumetric imaging to evaluate human brain with consideration of differential diagnosis.

The 70551 CPT code can be used for 3T MRI without contrast and with the 76377 CPT code for 3-Dimensional imaging of the services provided.

Only use CPT 70551 and CPT 76377 to report 3T MRI until new code combination is provided by CMS.

CPT Codes MRI Tibia Fibula

Tibia and fibula falls under the lower extremity area of MRI code section with codes CPT 73718, CPT 73719 and CPT 73720 (see MRI for lower extremity).

Mostly these codes are used for details of injury, fracture or rupture of tendons or muscle of that area.

If a doctor is looking at tibia and fibula injury in same session of MRI, you are only allowed to bill one unit of CPT 73718, CPT 73719 or CPT 73720.

MRI Cholangiopancreatography CPT Codes

MRI cholangiopancreatography is used to produce images of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems.

The S8037 CPT code can be used to bill magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. A more detailed MRI code of the abdomen needs to be coded along the S8037 CPT code to describe the procedure in detail.

CPT 74181, CPT 74182 and CPT 74182 have been described in the paragraph about MRI abdomen.

What is MRI Cholangiopancreatography?

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is magnetic resonance imaging that produces detailed images of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems.

Multi-planar images that are parallel to the biliary tree are obtained. The MR sequence is sensitive to static fluid and does not require contrast agents.

Post-processing can create multi-dimensional images of the entire area.

MRCP is useful in the diagnosis and level determination of a bile duct obstruction, cystic biliary diseases, primary sclerosing cholangitis, postop complications, cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic cancer, and chronic pancreatitis.

Most of insurances require prior authorization for this procedure to be performed, If the authorization is not provided, provider can get amount from patient directly but only after the claim is rejected.

S8037 CPT Code Description And Guidelines

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatograph is defined as follows.

Description: (MRCP) Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography.

The S8037 CPT code pays almost 1232.00 dollars by the insurances that cover this CPT code under their policies.

Medicare does not cover this code as of 2007. Medicare has advised us to use the abdomen MRI codes to bill this procedure.

The descriptions of the CPT codes for abdomen can be found in the section about MRI Abdomen.

These codes precisely describe the services performed. A MRCP study does include a standard MRI of the abdomen; along with (MIP) images to better delineate the bile duct anatomy.

MRI CSF Flow Study CPT Code

Use the CPT codes for MRI brain and spinal cord to evaluate the flow of cerebral spinal fluid that is present around the brain. The following CPT codes can be used.

Report CPT 70551, CPT 70552 or CPT 70553 if the flow study is performed in brain section. When the flow study is examined in the spinal canal, report CPT 72148, CPT 72149 or CPT 72150.

What is MRI CSF Flow?

MRI CSF flow is performed to check if there is any obstruction in CSF flow. Images are taken to check the different points of brain and spinal cord, make sure to choose the correct code depending on body area that is being examined.

Modifiers

If study is performed in both sections, bill both codes and use modifier 59 and modifier 51 accordingly.

MRI Lumbosacral Plexus CPT Code

Use the 72195 CPT code to bill MRI Lumbosacral Plexus. This region falls under the same section.