70390 X-ray examination of salivary duct
Also known as: sialadenography, sialography, salivary duct radiograph, sialogram
X-ray examination of the salivary duct system (ductal imaging) using iodinated contrast medium injected via the duct opening to visualize duct patency, strictures, stones, or structural abnormalities.
In Plain Language
spit tube X-ray; duct imaging
Clinical Context
Performed when sialoliths, ductal strictures, or chronic sialadenitis are suspected. Allows evaluation of duct obstruction, displacement, or pooling of contrast material. Largely superseded by MR sialography and ultrasound in modern practice.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.37 |
| Total RVU | 0.37 |
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 0.37, this code ranks in the 23rd percentile among Radiology codes — 2.2x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 70390?
CPT 70390 (X-ray examination of salivary duct) is a Radiology code. X-ray examination of the salivary duct system (ductal imaging) using iodinated contrast medium injected via the duct opening to visualize duct patency, strictures, stones, or structural abnormalities.
Who uses CPT code 70390?
CPT 70390 is used by Otolaryngology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Radiology. Performed when sialoliths, ductal strictures, or chronic sialadenitis are suspected. Allows evaluation of duct obstruction, displacement, or pooling of contrast material. Largely superseded by MR sialography and ultrasound in modern practice.
When is CPT 70390 used?
Performed when sialoliths, ductal strictures, or chronic sialadenitis are suspected. Allows evaluation of duct obstruction, displacement, or pooling of contrast material. Largely superseded by MR sialography and ultrasound in modern practice.
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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.