2025 CPT code 73718
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Radiology - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Procedures of the Lower Extremities Feed
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lower extremity (excluding joints), without contrast.
Modifiers 26 (professional component) and TC (technical component) may be applicable, depending on the services performed and payer requirements.Modifiers 50 (bilateral), 59 (distinct procedural service), and others may also be applicable, depending on the circumstances.
Medical necessity for a lower extremity MRI without contrast must be established based on the patient's symptoms, clinical findings, and other diagnostic test results. The test must be appropriate for the evaluation and management of the specific condition.
The clinical responsibility includes ordering the MRI, reviewing the images, and generating a report interpreting the findings.
- Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Procedures of the Lower Extremities
- Radiology Procedures > Diagnostic Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging) Procedures
In simple words: This test uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to take detailed pictures of your leg (but not your knee or ankle).No special dye is used. The pictures help doctors see what's going on inside your leg to diagnose any problems.
This diagnostic procedure involves a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of a patient's lower extremity, excluding joints, without the use of contrast material.The procedure uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the soft tissues and bones of the lower leg and thigh. The images help diagnose various conditions affecting these areas.
Example 1: A patient presents with lower leg pain and swelling after a fall.An MRI without contrast is ordered to rule out a fracture or soft tissue injury., A patient with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) experiences recurrent pain in their calf. A non-contrast MRI is used to evaluate for recurrence or complications., A patient has unexplained lower leg weakness. An MRI without contrast is performed to assess the muscles, nerves, and blood vessels of the lower extremity to determine the cause of weakness.
* Physician's order specifying the need for an MRI of the lower extremity (excluding joints) without contrast.* Detailed clinical history and physical examination findings.* Radiologist's interpretation report with images.
** Always refer to the most current CPT codebook and payer guidelines for accurate coding and reimbursement.
- Revenue Code: I2D (Advanced Imaging - MRI: Other)
- RVU: Information not available.RVUs vary based on geographic location and other factors. Consult your local Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for specific values.
- Global Days: Not applicable. This is a diagnostic imaging procedure, not a surgical procedure.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC is applicable when reporting only the technical component of the service.
- Fee Schedule: Historical fee schedule information is not provided. Contact your local Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for historical fee data.
- Specialties:Radiology, Orthopedics, Sports Medicine
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital (Inpatient or Outpatient), Ambulatory Surgical Center, Imaging Center