70552 MRI brain stem with dye
Also known as: brainstem MRI with contrast, enhanced brainstem imaging, gadolinium-enhanced brainstem MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging of the brainstem with intravenous gadolinium contrast medium enhancement. Provides enhanced visualization of brainstem pathology with improved lesion characterization.
In Plain Language
brainstem scan with dye; enhanced lower brain imaging
Clinical Context
Indicated for brainstem tumors, inflammatory demyelinating lesions, and infection evaluation. Gadolinium enhancement improves visualization of lesions disrupting blood-brain barrier.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.74 |
| Total RVU | 1.74 |
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 1.74, this code ranks in the 83rd percentile among Radiology codes — 2.1x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 70552?
CPT 70552 (MRI brain stem with dye) is a Radiology code. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brainstem with intravenous gadolinium contrast medium enhancement. Provides enhanced visualization of brainstem pathology with improved lesion characterization.
Who uses CPT code 70552?
CPT 70552 is used by Neuroradiology, Neurology, Oncology. Indicated for brainstem tumors, inflammatory demyelinating lesions, and infection evaluation. Gadolinium enhancement improves visualization of lesions disrupting blood-brain barrier.
When is CPT 70552 used?
Indicated for brainstem tumors, inflammatory demyelinating lesions, and infection evaluation. Gadolinium enhancement improves visualization of lesions disrupting blood-brain barrier.
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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.