72131 CT lumbar spine without dye
Also known as: lumbar spine CT, L-spine CT noncontrast, lumbosacral imaging
Computed tomography of the lumbar spine without intravenous contrast medium. High-resolution imaging evaluates lumbar vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and spinal canal.
In Plain Language
lower back spine scan without dye; lumbar CT imaging
Clinical Context
Most commonly used spine CT for low back pain evaluation, disc herniation assessment, and spinal stenosis evaluation. Excellent for detailed osseous anatomy.
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 72131?
CPT 72131 (CT lumbar spine without dye) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography of the lumbar spine without intravenous contrast medium. High-resolution imaging evaluates lumbar vertebrae, intervertebral discs, and spinal canal.
Who uses CPT code 72131?
CPT 72131 is used by Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery, Physiatry. Most commonly used spine CT for low back pain evaluation, disc herniation assessment, and spinal stenosis evaluation. Excellent for detailed osseous anatomy.
When is CPT 72131 used?
Most commonly used spine CT for low back pain evaluation, disc herniation assessment, and spinal stenosis evaluation. Excellent for detailed osseous anatomy.
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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.