71101 X-ray examination unilateral ribs/chest
Also known as: unilateral rib and chest X-ray, single side chest and rib series
Unilateral chest radiography including the ribs and chest cavity on one side with multiple views providing comprehensive ipsilateral thoracic assessment.
In Plain Language
one-sided chest and rib imaging; unilateral thoracic X-ray
Clinical Context
Ordered when both rib trauma and concurrent pulmonary or chest wall pathology requires detailed ipsilateral evaluation. Provides comprehensive single-side assessment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.26 |
| Total RVU | 0.26 |
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 0.26, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Radiology codes — 3.1x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 71101?
CPT 71101 (X-ray examination unilateral ribs/chest) is a Radiology code. Unilateral chest radiography including the ribs and chest cavity on one side with multiple views providing comprehensive ipsilateral thoracic assessment.
Who uses CPT code 71101?
CPT 71101 is used by Trauma Surgery, Pulmonology, Radiology. Ordered when both rib trauma and concurrent pulmonary or chest wall pathology requires detailed ipsilateral evaluation. Provides comprehensive single-side assessment.
When is CPT 71101 used?
Ordered when both rib trauma and concurrent pulmonary or chest wall pathology requires detailed ipsilateral evaluation. Provides comprehensive single-side assessment.
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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.