70134 X-ray examination of middle ear
Also known as: middle ear x-ray, temporal bone imaging, high-resolution mastoid
Radiographic examination of the middle ear (high-resolution imaging of temporal bone, mastoid, and middle ear structures).
In Plain Language
x-ray of the middle ear space
Clinical Context
Used for cholesteatoma, ossicular chain assessment, or middle ear effusion evaluation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.33 |
| Total RVU | 0.33 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
Radiology codes require a written order, clinical indication, and a formal interpretation report. The professional component (modifier -26) and technical component (modifier -TC) may be billed separately.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.33, this code ranks in the 21st percentile among Radiology codes — 2.5x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 70134?
CPT 70134 (X-ray examination of middle ear) is a Radiology code. Radiographic examination of the middle ear (high-resolution imaging of temporal bone, mastoid, and middle ear structures).
Who uses CPT code 70134?
CPT 70134 is used by radiology, otolaryngology. Used for cholesteatoma, ossicular chain assessment, or middle ear effusion evaluation.
When is CPT 70134 used?
Used for cholesteatoma, ossicular chain assessment, or middle ear effusion evaluation.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.