CPT Code 72157 - MRI Billing Guide + Modifiers & Tips

A professional get Mri of men brain by machine at lab center for this process use this CPT Code 72157.

Key Takeaways

  • What CPT Code 72157 Covers: MRI of the backbone with and without distinction
  • Session Duration Requirements: Not time-based, but duration should be documented
  • Who Can Use the Code: Radiologists, imaging centers, hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers
  • Best Practices for Proper Use:
    • Document contrast use clearly
    • Apply correct modifiers
    • Avoid confusion with similar CPT charge codes
    • Review payer-specific billing rules

Medical billing can feel like a code, and in a system, it is. CPT codes like CPT Code 72157 are critical to healthcare reimbursements, yet they often confuse even seasoned medical professionals.

This guide will help you avoid billing difficulties and improve compliance by decoding what this procedure code means, who can bill it, and how to use it accurately.

What Is the CPT CODE 72157?

CPT Code 72157 refers to an MRI of the backbone canal and substances, with and without contrast, with the use of distinction resources. Specifically, it’s used when imaging is required to evaluate spinal issues using both non-contrast and contrast-enhanced techniques.

A standard scan includes multiple image sets to enhance diagnostic accuracy. This makes it especially valuable when conditions such as tumors, inflammation, or multiple sclerosis are suspected.

It’s more comprehensive than the MRI lumbar spine without contrast CPT code and is often compared with the 72141 and 72158 CPT codes, which cover similar imaging procedures with different contrasts or anatomical scopes.

Who Can Bill CPT CODE 72157?

Billing for CPT Code 72157 is limited to:

  • Licensed Radiologists
  • Hospital Outpatient Departments
  • Ambulatory Surgical Centers
  • Imaging Centers

Providers must make sure they have the appropriate credentials and documentation to support the use of this code, particularly when billing for both the technical and professional components.

Services Covered Under CPT CODE 72157

The 72157 CPT procedure code covers:

  • MRI of the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar backbone
  • Imaging performed both with and without contrast
  • Radiological supervision and interpretation

It’s often used in diagnosing spinal cord abnormalities, disc issues, post-surgical complications, and other central nervous system disorders.

Need Help with Medical Billing?

Fill out the form below and we’ll contact you shortly.

Thank you! Your message has been sent.

Let's Talk

+1 (917) 994-9941

3811 Ditmars Blvd# 1124,

Astoria, NY 11105

Modifier Use with CPT CODE 72157

Common modifiers used with CPT Code 72157 include:

  • -26: For the professional component only
  • -TC: For the technical component only
  • -59: When used in distinct procedural services

Use the correct modifiers is important to avoid denials and ensure correct payment. Misuse may cause misunderstanding with interrelated codes like CPT code 21499 (unlisted musculoskeletal service) or CPT code for VRAM flap.

Common Billing Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these frequent pitfalls:

  • Billing without proper contrast documentation
  • Failing to append modifiers correctly
  • Confused about CPT Code 72157 with 72141 or 72158
  • Submitting charges under outdated codes like X3908 CPT code

Always double-check payer-specific guidelines and confirm that medical necessity is documented.

Reimbursement Rates for CPT CODE 72157

Reimbursement varies based on payer and location. However, national average Medicare reimbursement for CPT Code 72157 typically ranges between $350–$500.

This includes both technical and professional components. Ensure compliance to avoid recoupment.

Difference between "CPT CODE 72157" and Related Codes

 

CPT Code

Description

72157

MRI spine w/ & w/o contrast

72141

MRI spine w/o contrast

72158

MRI spine with/ contrast only

CPT Code 21499

Unlisted musculoskeletal service

CPT Code for VRAM flap

Used in complex reconstructive surgeries (not imaging-related)

CPT Code Belgium

May refer to European procedure code equivalents (non-U.S.)

Understanding these differences helps avoid billing mistakes and ensures the correct code reflects the performed service.

Final Thoughts

Getting to grips with CPT Code 72157 can feel overwhelming, but with accurate knowledge and best practices, it’s completely manageable. Remember to verify medical necessity, include precise documentation, and use proper modifiers.

Stay informed about updates to CT CPT Codes, CT abdomen and pelvis with contrast CPT, and CT chest CPT code if you’re billing related services. This comprehensive understanding allows providers to bill confidently and compliantly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

CPT Code 72157 is used for an MRI of the spinal canal with and without contrast to assess conditions like tumors, inflammation, or spinal cord issues.

CPT 72157 includes both with and without contrast imaging, while CPT 72158 includes only the contrast-enhanced portion.

Medicare typically reimburses $350–$500 for CPT Code 72157, depending on whether both technical and professional components are billed.

Common modifiers include -26 (professional component), -TC (technical component), and -59 for distinct procedural services.

Yes, imaging centers, hospitals, and radiologists can bill this code if the procedure meets medical necessity and is documented properly.

No, it’s not time-based. However, providers should document the procedure time and contrast administration for compliance.

Avoid billing errors by including contrast documentation, applying correct modifiers, and verifying payer-specific coding guidelines.

Discover Cures Medical Billing Services Across Different States

Your Success Is Our Success

We are a team of national medical billing service experts based in Astoria, NY, committed to providing ongoing value to our customers. We leverage technology and implement best practices to provide high-quality and cost-efficient medical billing solutions from domestic locations, enabling customers to achieve their business goals. Cures Medical Billing is the best option for any medical billing needs.

Medical billing around Astoria, NY, and beyond is our core competency and our specialists will efficiently manage all your billing needs. Our medical billing specialists have over 12 Plus years of experience with all security technologies to ensure data integrity for our customers. Using our medical billing service, anyone can make their medical billing task less resource-consuming.

Start free 30 Days Trial Now

Contact Our RCM

© 2024 Created Cures Medical Billing Solutions, All copyrights Reserved 

Wait! Don't Leave Yet

Want a free consultation or pricing guide? Send the info or call now for billing information.

📞 Call Now

We respect your privacy. No spam ever.

×
Icon

Get a FREE Medical Billing Audit

×

Book A Free Medical Billing Audit