70460 CT head/brain with dye
Also known as: CT head with contrast, enhanced CT brain, CT head with IV dye
Computed tomography scan of the head and brain with intravenous contrast medium enhancement. Provides detailed cross-sectional imaging with improved visualization of brain vasculature, pathologic enhancement patterns, and soft tissue differentiation.
In Plain Language
brain CT scan with dye; contrast-enhanced head scan
Clinical Context
Indicated for evaluation of suspected intracranial masses, infections, demyelinating disease, and vascular abnormalities. Contrast enhancement helps identify blood-brain barrier disruption and enhances visualization of neoplasms and inflammatory conditions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.10 |
| Total RVU | 1.10 |
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 1.10, this code ranks in the 61st percentile among Radiology codes — 1.4x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 70460?
CPT 70460 (CT head/brain with dye) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography scan of the head and brain with intravenous contrast medium enhancement. Provides detailed cross-sectional imaging with improved visualization of brain vasculature, pathologic enhancement patterns, and soft tissue differentiation.
Who uses CPT code 70460?
CPT 70460 is used by Neuroradiology, Oncology, Emergency Medicine. Indicated for evaluation of suspected intracranial masses, infections, demyelinating disease, and vascular abnormalities. Contrast enhancement helps identify blood-brain barrier disruption and enhances visualization of neoplasms and inflammatory conditions.
When is CPT 70460 used?
Indicated for evaluation of suspected intracranial masses, infections, demyelinating disease, and vascular abnormalities. Contrast enhancement helps identify blood-brain barrier disruption and enhances visualization of neoplasms and inflammatory conditions.
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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.