2025 CPT code 72081

Radiologic examination of the entire thoracic and lumbar spine, including skull, cervical, and sacral spine if performed; one view.

Follow CPT guidelines for radiology coding, ensuring accurate documentation of views obtained and appropriate modifier use (26 for professional component, TC for technical component if billed separately).

Modifiers 26 (professional component) and TC (technical component) may apply depending on who is billing and payer requirements. Modifier 59 (distinct procedural service) may be considered if multiple unrelated spinal segments are examined, requiring separate codes.

Medical necessity for this procedure is established based on clinical indications such as symptoms suggestive of scoliosis, back pain, history of trauma, or monitoring of existing spinal conditions. Supporting documentation should justify the need for this specific imaging study.

The clinical responsibility lies with the radiologist or physician interpreting the images. The technician performs the technical component, which involves positioning the patient and operating the X-ray equipment.Both professional and technical components may be billed separately using modifiers 26 and TC respectively unless provided as a global service.

IMPORTANT If multiple views (2-5) are obtained, use CPT codes 72082 or 72083; for six or more views, use CPT code 72084.

In simple words: This code describes an X-ray of the entire back, from the upper to lower spine. It may also include pictures of the head, neck, and tailbone if needed. This X-ray is often done to check for curvature of the spine (scoliosis) or other spine problems.

This CPT code encompasses a radiologic examination of the entire thoracic and lumbar spine.The examination includes the skull, cervical, and sacral spine if imaged during the procedure. This is typically performed for the evaluation of scoliosis or other spinal abnormalities. The procedure involves obtaining a single-view radiographic image of the specified spinal regions.

Example 1: A 14-year-old female patient presents with suspected scoliosis. A single-view X-ray of the entire spine (72081) is ordered to assess the curvature., A 55-year-old male patient experiences back pain after a fall. A single-view X-ray (72081) is taken to evaluate for fractures or other spinal abnormalities., A 70-year-old patient with osteoporosis undergoes a routine spine X-ray (72081) to monitor for vertebral compression fractures.

* Physician's order specifying the procedure.* Radiologist's report detailing findings and interpretations.* Images of the X-ray.* Patient's medical history and clinical presentation.

** Always confirm the correct code based on the number of views obtained.Incorrect code selection can result in claims denials.Be sure to check with payers regarding their specific requirements for billing this procedure and any associated modifiers.

  • Revenue Code: 0360
  • RVU: The relative value units for this code vary depending on location and payer. Consult your local fee schedule or payer guidelines for exact RVUs.Remember to factor in any applicable modifiers.
  • Global Days : Not applicable; this is a single-view radiologic examination.
  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC (technical component) may be appended when the technical component is billed separately; however, payer policies may vary.
  • Fee Schedule : Fee schedules are payer and location specific. Access historical data from your payer's website for accurate information.Remember that fees are subject to change.
  • Specialties:Radiology, Orthopedics, Neurosurgery
  • Place of Service:Office, Hospital (Inpatient or Outpatient), Ambulatory Surgical Center, Imaging Center
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