CPT Code 72148 is used the billing an MRI of the lumbar back without the use of contrast material. This is typically ordered to evaluate lower back pain, nerve compression, disc herniation, spinal tumors, or degenerative disc disease.
CPT Code 72148 is used for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine, focusing on the spinal canal and its contents, without using contrast dye.
It plays an important role in diagnosing spinal conditions by offering clear soft tissue visualization without the need for invasive techniques.
The following healthcare providers and facilities commonly bill for CPT code 72148:
These professionals must document medical necessity and follow payer-specific guidelines to ensure claim acceptance.
CPT 72148 applies specifically to:
This code does not include contrast material. If contrast is used, different or additional codes like 72158 are required.
When billing, apply modifiers according to the part of the service performed:
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Avoid these pitfalls when billing CPT code 72148:
Medicare Average Reimbursement:
Costs may vary depending on geographic location, payer contract, and place of service (e.g., hospital vs. imaging center).
Always verify the latest Medicare Physician Fee Schedule or commercial payer contracts.
When verifying this code with payers, use their online CPT code lookup tools or portals. Always confirm:
CPT Code | Description | Contrast Used? |
72148 | MRI lumbar spine without contrast | No |
72149 | MRI lumbar spine with contrast | Yes |
72158 | MRI lumbar spine with and without difference | Yes |
70551 | MRI brain without contrast | No |
73721 | MRI of the knee without contrast | No |
74183 | MRI abdomen with and without contrast | Yes |
CPT 72148 is commonly used for lumbar spine MRI procedures that do not involve contrast material. Proper billing depends on:
For medical billing professionals, staying compliant with CPT code 72148 ensures fast reimbursements and fewer denials.
CPT Code 72148 describes an MRI of the lumbar spine without contrast, used to examine discs, nerves, and soft tissue in the lower back. It’s commonly employed for diagnosing issues like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
Payer conventions and ability kinds distress cost significantly.
“Total charge was $2,885, the insurer paid $944.97, and the individual was left with a bill of $1,940.03. Another advised asking for cost estimates upfront using the specific code:
I essential an MRI of the lower spinal without dye, CPT code 72148. How much will that cost?
Providers typically originate the imaging order, but billing departments or diagnostic centers assign the actual CPT code. Who determines which CPT codes to bill? Is it the GP before the imaging ability based on the GP comments?
Yes. CPT Code 72148 applies only when no contrast is used. If contrast was administered, other codes like 72149 or 72158 should be used instead.
The numbers that appear are Quest’s internal codes, not CPT code. The only CPT coding the doctor’s office does is for the appointments. Make sure billing departments or coding teams confirm the proper code usage.
Absolutely. Many users reported that self-pay rates at private imaging centers may be much lower than hospital pricing, even when using the same CPT code. Services like ClearHealthCosts can provide insights.
The most commonly used modifiers are:
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