2025 CPT code 72082
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Radiology - Radiologic Examination of Spine Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Procedures of the Spine and Pelvis Feed
Radiologic examination of the entire thoracic and lumbar spine, including skull, cervical, and sacral spine if performed; 2 or 3 views.
Modifiers 26 (professional component) and TC (technical component) are applicable depending on who performs the technical aspects of the procedure.
Medical necessity for a 72082 is established when clinical symptoms or findings warrant a comprehensive radiologic evaluation of the entire thoracic and lumbar spine. This may include suspected scoliosis, trauma, chronic back pain, or suspected degenerative conditions.
The clinical responsibility includes the radiologist's expertise in positioning the patient, obtaining clear images with the appropriate radiation dose, analyzing the images, and creating a comprehensive report of findings.
- Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Procedures of the Spine and Pelvis
- 72081-72084 (Radiologic examination of entire spine, varying number of views)
In simple words: This is an X-ray of your entire upper and lower back.The doctor will take 2 or 3 pictures from different angles to check for problems with your spine, like scoliosis (curvature of the spine).
This CPT code encompasses a radiologic examination of the entire thoracic and lumbar spine using X-ray imaging.The procedure involves obtaining two or three views (projections) of the spine to evaluate for conditions such as scoliosis or other spinal abnormalities. The examination may include the skull, cervical spine (neck), and sacral spine (tailbone) if clinically indicated. The radiologist positions the patient and takes the images, ensuring proper technique for optimal image quality. Following image acquisition, the radiologist interprets the images, generating a report that details the findings and any relevant clinical implications.
Example 1: A 14-year-old female presents with suspected scoliosis.A 72082 is performed to assess the curvature of her spine.The images reveal a mild thoracic curve, requiring further monitoring., A 55-year-old male with chronic back pain undergoes a comprehensive spine X-ray (72082) to evaluate for degenerative changes or fractures. The results show mild degenerative disc disease., A 70-year-old patient with a history of osteoporosis sustains a fall and presents with back pain.A 72082 is performed to evaluate for vertebral compression fractures, and the images are negative.
* Patient demographics and identifying information.* History of present illness detailing symptoms and relevant medical history.* Detailed description of the X-ray technique and views obtained.* Radiologist's interpretation of the images including measurements and detailed findings.* Physician's diagnostic impression and any recommendations for further management.
** The number of views documented should accurately reflect the number performed.If additional spinal regions are included (e.g., cervical or sacral), it must be specified in the documentation.
- Revenue Code: I1B (STANDARD IMAGING - MUSCULOSKELETAL)
- RVU: The RVUs for this code vary based on geographic location and payer. Consult a fee schedule or pricing tool for precise figures.Factors influencing RVU calculation include the complexity of the examination and interpretation.
- Global Days: This code does not have a defined global period.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC is applicable for the technical component, typically billed by the facility. Modifier 26 is used when only the professional interpretation is billed.
- Fee Schedule: Fee schedules vary significantly by payer and geographic region.Historical data should be obtained from specific payer fee schedules.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Radiology, Neurosurgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Office