70370 Throat x-ray & fluoroscopy
Also known as: barium swallow, modified barium swallow, fluoroscopic swallow study, esophagram
Dynamic X-ray examination of the pharynx and cervical esophagus using fluoroscopy and barium contrast medium to evaluate swallowing mechanics and esophageal motility. Typically includes multiple radiographic views during the act of swallowing.
In Plain Language
swallow study; throat motion X-ray
Clinical Context
Ordered when patients present with dysphagia, aspiration risk, post-stroke evaluation, or neurological conditions affecting swallowing. Critical for determining safety of oral intake and need for modified diet or alternative nutrition.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.31 |
| Total RVU | 0.31 |
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 0.31, this code ranks in the 21st percentile among Radiology codes — 2.6x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 70370?
CPT 70370 (Throat x-ray & fluoroscopy) is a Radiology code. Dynamic X-ray examination of the pharynx and cervical esophagus using fluoroscopy and barium contrast medium to evaluate swallowing mechanics and esophageal motility. Typically includes multiple radiographic views during the act of swallowing.
Who uses CPT code 70370?
CPT 70370 is used by Otolaryngology, Speech-Language Pathology, Gastroenterology. Ordered when patients present with dysphagia, aspiration risk, post-stroke evaluation, or neurological conditions affecting swallowing. Critical for determining safety of oral intake and need for modified diet or alternative nutrition.
When is CPT 70370 used?
Ordered when patients present with dysphagia, aspiration risk, post-stroke evaluation, or neurological conditions affecting swallowing. Critical for determining safety of oral intake and need for modified diet or alternative nutrition.
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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.