72129 CT chest spine with dye
Also known as: thoracic spine CT with contrast, myelogram CT thoracic, enhanced T-spine imaging
Computed tomography of the thoracic spine with intravenous contrast medium enhancement. Provides enhanced visualization of thoracic cord and nerve roots.
In Plain Language
mid-back spine scan with dye; enhanced thoracic imaging
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic myelopathy evaluation, nerve root compression assessment, and detailed spinal cord pathology visualization. Contrast enhancement improves tissue characterization.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.19 |
| Total RVU | 1.19 |
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 1.19, this code ranks in the 69th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.5x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 72129?
CPT 72129 (CT chest spine with dye) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography of the thoracic spine with intravenous contrast medium enhancement. Provides enhanced visualization of thoracic cord and nerve roots.
Who uses CPT code 72129?
CPT 72129 is used by Neurosurgery, Radiology, Orthopedic Surgery. Used for thoracic myelopathy evaluation, nerve root compression assessment, and detailed spinal cord pathology visualization. Contrast enhancement improves tissue characterization.
When is CPT 72129 used?
Used for thoracic myelopathy evaluation, nerve root compression assessment, and detailed spinal cord pathology visualization. Contrast enhancement improves tissue characterization.
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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.