71271 CT thorax lung cancer scr c-
Also known as: lung cancer screening CT, low-dose chest CT, LDCT
Computed tomography of the thorax without intravenous contrast medium specifically for lung cancer screening in high-risk patients. Low-dose acquisition emphasizes pulmonary parenchyma.
In Plain Language
lung cancer screening scan; preventive lung imaging
Clinical Context
Used for screening of high-risk patients meeting criteria (age 55-77, significant smoking history). Low-dose technique reduces radiation exposure while maintaining adequate lung nodule detection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.05 |
| Total RVU | 1.05 |
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 1.05, this code ranks in the 60th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.3x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 71271?
CPT 71271 (CT thorax lung cancer scr c-) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography of the thorax without intravenous contrast medium specifically for lung cancer screening in high-risk patients. Low-dose acquisition emphasizes pulmonary parenchyma.
Who uses CPT code 71271?
CPT 71271 is used by Pulmonology, Oncology, Preventive Medicine. Used for screening of high-risk patients meeting criteria (age 55-77, significant smoking history). Low-dose technique reduces radiation exposure while maintaining adequate lung nodule detection.
When is CPT 71271 used?
Used for screening of high-risk patients meeting criteria (age 55-77, significant smoking history). Low-dose technique reduces radiation exposure while maintaining adequate lung nodule detection.
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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.