2025 CPT code 70450
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Diagnostic Radiology - Computed Tomography Radiology Feed
Computed tomography (CT) scan of the head or brain without contrast material.
Modifiers 26 (professional component), 59 (distinct procedural service), TC (technical component), and others may be applicable depending on the circumstances of service.
Medical necessity for a non-contrast CT scan of the head is established based on clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, and other diagnostic tests. It is typically indicated when there is a strong suspicion of intracranial pathology requiring urgent or emergent imaging.
The radiologist or qualified technician operates the CT scanner, acquires the images, and ensures proper patient positioning.A physician interprets the images and creates the radiology report.
In simple words: This test uses special X-rays and a computer to create detailed pictures of your brain. It helps doctors find problems like injuries, tumors, or infections. No special dye is used during this scan.
A computed tomography (CT) scan of the head or brain without contrast is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure using X-ray technology to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the brain.This procedure is used to diagnose various conditions affecting the brain, such as injuries, tumors, infections, and other abnormalities. It helps identify the cause of symptoms like headaches, dizziness, seizures, and changes in behavior or consciousness.The scan does not involve the administration of contrast dye.
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department after a motor vehicle accident with a suspected head injury. A non-contrast CT scan of the head is ordered to rule out intracranial hemorrhage., A patient experiences a sudden onset of severe headache and altered mental status. A non-contrast CT scan is performed to evaluate for a stroke or other acute neurological event., A patient with a history of seizures undergoes a non-contrast CT scan to assess for any structural abnormalities that may be contributing to their seizures.
Physician's order specifying the need for a non-contrast CT scan of the head.Patient demographics and medical history.Radiology report including image interpretation and findings.
** Consider using appropriate modifiers to reflect the complexity of the procedure or the location where it was performed.
- Revenue Code: I2A (ADVANCED IMAGING - CAT: HEAD)
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC is applicable if only the technical component of the service is performed.
- Specialties:Neurology, Neurosurgery, Emergency Medicine, Radiology
- Place of Service:Hospital Inpatient, Hospital Outpatient, Emergency Room - Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center