72132 CT lumbar spine with dye
Also known as: lumbar spine CT with contrast, myelogram CT lumbar, enhanced L-spine imaging
Computed tomography of the lumbar spine with intravenous contrast medium enhancement. Provides enhanced visualization of lumbar nerve roots and spinal cord.
In Plain Language
lower back spine scan with dye; enhanced lumbar imaging
Clinical Context
Used for evaluation of sciatica, nerve root compression, and detailed assessment of spinal cord pathology. Contrast enhancement improves nerve root and soft tissue visualization.
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 72132?
CPT 72132 (CT lumbar spine with dye) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography of the lumbar spine with intravenous contrast medium enhancement. Provides enhanced visualization of lumbar nerve roots and spinal cord.
Who uses CPT code 72132?
CPT 72132 is used by Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Radiology. Used for evaluation of sciatica, nerve root compression, and detailed assessment of spinal cord pathology. Contrast enhancement improves nerve root and soft tissue visualization.
When is CPT 72132 used?
Used for evaluation of sciatica, nerve root compression, and detailed assessment of spinal cord pathology. Contrast enhancement improves nerve root and soft tissue visualization.
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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.