2025 CPT code 72156
Effective Date: N/A Radiology - Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Feed
MRI of the cervical spine with and without contrast.
Modifiers 26 (professional component) and TC (technical component) are applicable if only one of these components was performed. Modifier 59 may be used to indicate a distinct procedural service.
Medical necessity for this procedure must be established by linking the symptoms and clinical findings to a condition that requires MRI evaluation of the cervical spine. The documentation must clearly justify the need for imaging with and without contrast.
The physician explains the procedure, positions the patient within the MRI machine, monitors the imaging process, reviews the images for quality and diagnostic information, interprets the findings, and prepares a report.
In simple words: This procedure uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to create detailed images of the neck's spinal canal and its contents, including the spinal cord, nerves, and discs. It's done in two parts: first without, and then with, a special dye (contrast) injected to enhance the images.
Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, spinal canal and contents, without contrast material, followed by contrast material(s) and further sequences; cervical.
Example 1: A patient experiences persistent neck pain, numbness, and tingling radiating down the arm following a car accident. A cervical spine MRI with and without contrast is ordered to assess for disc herniation, nerve root compression, or spinal cord injury., A patient presents with progressive weakness and difficulty with fine motor skills in their hands. A cervical spine MRI with contrast is ordered to evaluate for spinal cord lesions or tumors., A patient with a history of cervical spondylosis experiences worsening symptoms. A cervical spine MRI with and without contrast is ordered to monitor disease progression and assess for new or worsening nerve impingement.
The documentation should include the patient's relevant medical history, presenting symptoms, physical examination findings, reason for the MRI, the specific area imaged (cervical spine), the use of contrast material, and the radiologist's interpretation of the images.
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC applies when billing for the technical component only, which includes the equipment, staff, and supplies used to perform the imaging.
- Specialties:Radiology, Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Neurology
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Independent Clinic, Imaging Center