71046 X-ray examination chest 2 views
Also known as: chest X-ray two views, PA and lateral chest, standard chest series, chest x-ray 2 views, CXR PA and lateral
Chest radiography including two views typically consisting of posteroanterior and lateral projections of the thoracic cavity.
In Plain Language
two-view lung X-ray; front and side chest pictures
Clinical Context
Standard comprehensive chest radiography allowing assessment from two orthogonal planes. Lateral view provides depth assessment and retrocardiac opacity evaluation that PA view cannot provide.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.21 |
| Total RVU | 0.21 |
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 0.21, this code ranks in the 13th percentile among Radiology codes — 3.9x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 71046?
CPT 71046 (X-ray examination chest 2 views) is a Radiology code. Chest radiography including two views typically consisting of posteroanterior and lateral projections of the thoracic cavity.
Who uses CPT code 71046?
CPT 71046 is used by Pulmonology, Internal Medicine, Radiology. Standard comprehensive chest radiography allowing assessment from two orthogonal planes. Lateral view provides depth assessment and retrocardiac opacity evaluation that PA view cannot provide.
When is CPT 71046 used?
Standard comprehensive chest radiography allowing assessment from two orthogonal planes. Lateral view provides depth assessment and retrocardiac opacity evaluation that PA view cannot provide.
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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.