72020 X-ray examination of spine 1 view
Also known as: spine X-ray one view, full spine radiograph, complete spine series
Radiography of the entire spinal column including cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine in a single view. Provides overview of spinal alignment and gross pathology.
In Plain Language
backbone one-view X-ray; complete spine picture
Clinical Context
Used for screening of spinal alignment, detection of major pathology, and as initial survey in trauma. Limited by anatomic overlap but useful for rapid assessment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.16 |
| Total RVU | 0.16 |
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 0.16, this code ranks in the 4th percentile among Radiology codes — 5.1x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 72020?
CPT 72020 (X-ray examination of spine 1 view) is a Radiology code. Radiography of the entire spinal column including cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral spine in a single view. Provides overview of spinal alignment and gross pathology.
Who uses CPT code 72020?
CPT 72020 is used by Orthopedic Surgery, Radiology, Emergency Medicine. Used for screening of spinal alignment, detection of major pathology, and as initial survey in trauma. Limited by anatomic overlap but useful for rapid assessment.
When is CPT 72020 used?
Used for screening of spinal alignment, detection of major pathology, and as initial survey in trauma. Limited by anatomic overlap but useful for rapid 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.