72128 CT chest spine without dye
Also known as: thoracic spine CT, T-spine CT noncontrast, dorsal spine imaging
Computed tomography of the thoracic spine without intravenous contrast medium. High-resolution imaging evaluates thoracic vertebrae, spinal canal, and rib attachment sites.
In Plain Language
mid-back spine scan without dye; thoracic CT imaging
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic trauma, kyphosis assessment, and evaluation of thoracic spine pathology. Excellent for detecting fractures and spinal canal involvement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.98 |
| Total RVU | 0.98 |
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 0.98, this code ranks in the 58th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.2x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 72128?
CPT 72128 (CT chest spine without dye) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography of the thoracic spine without intravenous contrast medium. High-resolution imaging evaluates thoracic vertebrae, spinal canal, and rib attachment sites.
Who uses CPT code 72128?
CPT 72128 is used by Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Radiology. Used for thoracic trauma, kyphosis assessment, and evaluation of thoracic spine pathology. Excellent for detecting fractures and spinal canal involvement.
When is CPT 72128 used?
Used for thoracic trauma, kyphosis assessment, and evaluation of thoracic spine pathology. Excellent for detecting fractures and spinal canal involvement.
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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.