CPT Code 72156 - MRI Brain w/ & w/o Contrast Explained

A professional see the brain mri on screen to patient sleep on bed about this use this CPT Code 72156.

Key Takeaways

  • What CPT Code 72156 Covers: MRI of the brain before and after contrast administration
  • Session Duration Requirements: Not time-based, but must document all components
  • Who Can Use the Code: Radiologists, outpatient imaging centers, hospitals
  • Best Practices: Use correct modifiers, link with justified ICD-10 codes, maintain clear documentation

What Is CPT Code 72156?

CPT Code 72156 refers to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain with and without contrast material. This diagnostic imaging service helps evaluate detailed anatomical structures of the brain to diagnose abnormalities such as tumors, aneurysms, or multiple sclerosis.

Understanding CPT Code 72156 is important in billing, especially for radiologists and outpatient facilities. It ensures accurate claim submission, prevents denials, and supports clinical necessity documentation.

Who Can Bill CPT Code 72156?

The following providers are typically eligible to bill CPT Code 72156:

  • Radiologists
  • Neurologists (when imaging is part of neurological assessment)
  • Outpatient imaging centers
  • Hospital outpatient departments

Always verify payer guidelines before billing.

Services Covered Under CPT Code 72156

This code covers an MRI of the brain before and after contrast material is administered. The service includes:

  • Initial scan without contrast
  • Injection of contrast agent (e.g., gadolinium)
  • Post-contrast imaging

This procedure is usually performed when the pre-contrast images show abnormalities requiring further clarification or when clinical indications support contrast use.

Modifier Use with CPT Code 72156

Depending on payer policies, modifiers may be required:

  • Modifier 26 – Used when billing only for the professional portion, such as reading or interpreting the MRI.
  • Modifier TC – Applied when charging solely for the technical aspect, like the equipment and scan performance.
  • Modifier 59 – Indicates a separate and distinct service done during the same visit to prevent service bundling.

Using the correct modifiers helps avoid denials and ensures each part of the procedure is properly reimbursed.

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Common Billing Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these errors to ensure timely reimbursement:

  • Billing CPT Code 72156 when only a non-contrast MRI was performed
  • Failing to use Modifiers 26 or TC appropriately
  • Missing documentation of clinical necessity for contrast use
  • Incorrect ICD-10 codes that don’t justify the MRI with contrast

Reimbursement Rates for CPT Code 72156

Reimbursement rates can vary by payer. On average:

  • Medicare may reimburse around $400–$500 depending on region and billing components.
  • Private insurers may offer higher or lower rates.

Ensure you check payer-specific fee schedules or use a CPT code lookup tool.

Difference between CPT Code 72156 and Related Codes

Code

Description

72148

MRI brain without contrast only

72149

MRI brain with contrast only

70553

MRI brain with and without contrast (alternative)

Understanding these differences helps avoid incorrect billing or duplication.

Final Thoughts

CPT Code 72156 is an essential code in radiology billing, especially for brain imaging that requires contrast. Accurate documentation, proper modifier use, and an understanding of payer guidelines are vital to successful claim processing. Avoid mutual mistakes and stay informed of reimbursement policies.

Need help with imaging and radiology billing?
Contact Cures Medical Billing for expert guidance on codes like 72156, 72141, 72148, and CT procedures. We’re here to help you get paid accurately, every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

CPT Code 72156 refers to an MRI scan of the brain performed both with and without contrast material. This code is used when a detailed view of brain structures is required, typically for evaluating conditions like tumors, vascular abnormalities, or unexplained neurological symptoms.

Unlike CPT 70551 (MRI brain without contrast) or CPT 70553 (MRI brain with and without contrast for more complex protocols), 72156 specifically covers MRI of the spine (cervical, thoracic, or lumbar) with and without contrast. It’s often confused with brain MRI codes but applies to spinal imaging, not the brain.

Licensed radiologists, diagnostic imaging centers, outpatient facilities, and hospital-based departments may bill CPT Code 72156, provided the procedure is performed and documented appropriately. The interpreting provider must include both the pre-contrast and post-contrast images in the final report.

In most cases, no modifier is needed when billing CPT 72156 alone. However, if multiple imaging services are performed during the same encounter (e.g., 72148 + 72156), modifiers like -59 (Distinct Procedural Service) or -76 (Repeat Procedure by Same Provider) may apply. Always check payer-specific guidelines.

You must document the medical necessity for using contrast, the indication for spinal imaging, pre- and post-contrast images, and the radiologist’s interpretation. Inadequate documentation is a common reason for denied claims or payer audits related to this code.

As of 2025, Medicare reimbursement for CPT 72156 typically falls in the range of $400–$600, depending on geographic region, place of service, and provider status (facility vs. non-facility). Always verify with CMS or your local MAC for the latest rates.

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