2025 CPT code 70470
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Diagnostic Radiology - Computed Tomography Radiology Feed
Computed tomography (CT) of the head or brain without and with contrast material and additional sections.
Modifiers may be applicable based on the circumstances of the service provided, including but not limited to: 26 (professional component), 59 (distinct procedural service), TC (technical component), and others as dictated by payer guidelines.
Medical necessity is established through clinical findings suggesting the need for CT imaging of the head or brain, such as symptoms suggestive of stroke, trauma, tumor, or infection. The use of contrast should be medically justified based on the clinical scenario to improve diagnostic accuracy.
The clinical responsibility lies with the radiologist who interprets the images and renders a report. The technologist is responsible for performing the scan according to established protocols.Physician supervision requirements vary based on whether or not contrast is used.
- Radiology
- Radiology Procedures > Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Procedures > Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Procedures of the Head and Neck
In simple words: This medical code describes a CT scan of the head and brain.First, a scan is done without any special dye. Then, a special dye is injected into the bloodstream, and more scans are done to get clearer images. This helps doctors see problems inside the brain, like aneurysms.
This CPT code, 70470, represents the performance of a computed tomography (CT) scan of the head or brain. The procedure involves initial imaging without contrast material, followed by the administration of contrast material for enhanced visualization, and the acquisition of additional sectional images.The contrast must be administered intravenously, intra-articularly, or intrathecally for this code to be reported. This comprehensive imaging approach aids in the diagnosis of various intracranial abnormalities, including but not limited to cerebral aneurysms, tumors, and vascular malformations.
Example 1: A patient presents with acute onset headache and suspected subarachnoid hemorrhage. A CT scan without contrast is initially performed, followed by a CT scan with intravenous contrast to visualize vascular structures, aiding in the diagnosis and management of the bleed., A patient with a history of brain tumors undergoes a follow-up CT scan with and without contrast to assess tumor size and response to treatment. Additional images are acquired for precise measurement and evaluation., A patient sustains a head injury in a motor vehicle accident. A CT scan without and with intravenous contrast is performed to rule out intracranial hemorrhage, fractures, and other injuries. Additional images help determine extent of trauma.
Detailed clinical history indicating the reason for the CT scan, the type of contrast material used (if any), and the specific images acquired (with and without contrast).Radiology report providing detailed interpretation of the findings and correlation with clinical presentation.
** The use of contrast material should be documented appropriately, including the type and route of administration.Pay close attention to individual payer policies regarding contrast coverage and reimbursement.
- Revenue Code: I2A (ADVANCED IMAGING - CAT: HEAD)
- RVU: This information is not readily available and can vary depending on location, payer, and other factors.Consult your local fee schedule or payer guidelines for specific RVU values.
- Global Days: This code does not have a defined global period.Billing practices should align with payer specific guidelines.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC (technical component) may apply if the technical component is billed separately from the professional component.Payers may have specific requirements regarding this.
- Fee Schedule: Historical fee schedules are not provided here. Fee schedules are payer- and location-specific and change frequently. Consult your local fee schedule or payer-specific guidelines for relevant information.
- Specialties:Radiology, Neurosurgery, Neurology, Emergency Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office