70486 CT maxillofacial without dye
Also known as: maxillofacial CT, facial bones CT, mandibular CT
Computed tomography scan of the maxillofacial region without intravenous contrast medium. High-resolution imaging evaluates maxillary and mandibular bones, temporomandibular joints, and dental structures.
In Plain Language
jaw and face bone scan; teeth and jaw imaging
Clinical Context
Used for jaw fractures, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, dental implant planning, orthognathic surgery evaluation, and assessment of oral and maxillofacial pathology. Noncontrast is standard unless soft tissue characterization is required.
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 70486?
CPT 70486 (CT maxillofacial without dye) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography scan of the maxillofacial region without intravenous contrast medium. High-resolution imaging evaluates maxillary and mandibular bones, temporomandibular joints, and dental structures.
Who uses CPT code 70486?
CPT 70486 is used by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dentistry, Orthognathic Surgery. Used for jaw fractures, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, dental implant planning, orthognathic surgery evaluation, and assessment of oral and maxillofacial pathology. Noncontrast is standard unless soft tissue characterization is required.
When is CPT 70486 used?
Used for jaw fractures, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, dental implant planning, orthognathic surgery evaluation, and assessment of oral and maxillofacial pathology. Noncontrast is standard unless soft tissue characterization is required.
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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.