72100 X-ray examination l-s spine 2/3 vws
Also known as: lumbar spine X-ray, L-S spine radiograph, lumbosacral series
Radiography of the lumbar-sacral spine including two to three views from anteroposterior and lateral projections. Evaluates lumbar and sacral vertebrae.
In Plain Language
lower back bone X-ray; lumbar vertebra imaging
Clinical Context
Most common spinal radiography study used for low back pain evaluation, disc disease assessment, and vertebral stability. Two to three view approach is standard.
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 72100?
CPT 72100 (X-ray examination l-s spine 2/3 vws) is a Radiology code. Radiography of the lumbar-sacral spine including two to three views from anteroposterior and lateral projections. Evaluates lumbar and sacral vertebrae.
Who uses CPT code 72100?
CPT 72100 is used by Orthopedic Surgery, Physiatry, Neurosurgery. Most common spinal radiography study used for low back pain evaluation, disc disease assessment, and vertebral stability. Two to three view approach is standard.
When is CPT 72100 used?
Most common spinal radiography study used for low back pain evaluation, disc disease assessment, and vertebral stability. Two to three view approach is standard.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.