70450 CT head/brain without dye
Also known as: CT head noncontrast, CT brain, non-enhanced computed tomography, CT head without contrast
Computed tomography scan of the head and brain without intravenous contrast medium. Provides high-resolution cross-sectional imaging to evaluate brain parenchyma, ventricles, and surrounding skull structures.
In Plain Language
brain CT scan; head scan without dye
Clinical Context
Essential study for acute stroke evaluation, head trauma, subarachnoid hemorrhage, mass identification, and skull base pathology. Noncontrast technique is preferred for acute bleeding and many emergency scenarios. Faster acquisition than MRI.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.83 |
| Total RVU | 0.83 |
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 0.83, this code ranks in the 52nd percentile among Radiology codes — 1.0x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 70450?
CPT 70450 (CT head/brain without dye) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography scan of the head and brain without intravenous contrast medium. Provides high-resolution cross-sectional imaging to evaluate brain parenchyma, ventricles, and surrounding skull structures.
Who uses CPT code 70450?
CPT 70450 is used by Neuroradiology, Emergency Medicine, Neurosurgery. Essential study for acute stroke evaluation, head trauma, subarachnoid hemorrhage, mass identification, and skull base pathology. Noncontrast technique is preferred for acute bleeding and many emergency scenarios. Faster acquisition than MRI.
When is CPT 70450 used?
Essential study for acute stroke evaluation, head trauma, subarachnoid hemorrhage, mass identification, and skull base pathology. Noncontrast technique is preferred for acute bleeding and many emergency scenarios. Faster acquisition than MRI.
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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.