70557 MRI brain without dye
Also known as: brain MRI, brain MRI noncontrast, cerebral MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging of the entire brain without intravenous gadolinium contrast medium. Standard anatomic imaging evaluates brain parenchyma, ventricles, and intracranial structures.
In Plain Language
brain scan without dye; head MRI
Clinical Context
Commonly used for evaluation of dementia, headache workup, multiple sclerosis screening, white matter disease assessment, and general neurological evaluation. Superior soft tissue contrast compared to CT.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.90 |
| Total RVU | 2.90 |
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 2.90, this code ranks in the 97th percentile among Radiology codes — 3.6x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 70557?
CPT 70557 (MRI brain without dye) is a Radiology code. Magnetic resonance imaging of the entire brain without intravenous gadolinium contrast medium. Standard anatomic imaging evaluates brain parenchyma, ventricles, and intracranial structures.
Who uses CPT code 70557?
CPT 70557 is used by Neuroradiology, Neurology, Psychiatry. Commonly used for evaluation of dementia, headache workup, multiple sclerosis screening, white matter disease assessment, and general neurological evaluation. Superior soft tissue contrast compared to CT.
When is CPT 70557 used?
Commonly used for evaluation of dementia, headache workup, multiple sclerosis screening, white matter disease assessment, and general neurological evaluation. Superior soft tissue contrast compared to CT.
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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.