72133 CT lumbar spine without & with dye
Also known as: lumbar spine CT with and without contrast, dual-phase L-spine CT
Computed tomography of the lumbar spine performed with noncontrast and intravenous contrast acquisitions. Comprehensive imaging combining baseline and enhanced assessment.
In Plain Language
complete lower back spine scan; comprehensive lumbar imaging
Clinical Context
Comprehensive protocol when both baseline lumbar anatomy and enhanced pathology characterization are needed for complex low back pathology evaluation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.24 |
| Total RVU | 1.24 |
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 1.24, this code ranks in the 70th 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 72133?
CPT 72133 (CT lumbar spine without & with dye) is a Radiology code. Computed tomography of the lumbar spine performed with noncontrast and intravenous contrast acquisitions. Comprehensive imaging combining baseline and enhanced assessment.
Who uses CPT code 72133?
CPT 72133 is used by Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Radiology. Comprehensive protocol when both baseline lumbar anatomy and enhanced pathology characterization are needed for complex low back pathology evaluation.
When is CPT 72133 used?
Comprehensive protocol when both baseline lumbar anatomy and enhanced pathology characterization are needed for complex low back pathology evaluation.
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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.