72142 MRI neck spine with dye
Also known as: cervical spine MRI with contrast, enhanced C-spine imaging, gadolinium-enhanced myelography
Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine with intravenous gadolinium contrast medium enhancement. Enhanced visualization of nerve roots and spinal cord pathology.
In Plain Language
neck spine scan with dye; enhanced cervical imaging
Clinical Context
Used for evaluation of spinal cord syrinx, arachnoiditis, infection, and enhanced lesion characterization. Gadolinium administration improves visualization of inflammatory and pathologic conditions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.74 |
| Total RVU | 1.74 |
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 1.74, this code ranks in the 83rd percentile among Radiology codes — 2.1x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 72142?
CPT 72142 (MRI neck spine with dye) is a Radiology code. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine with intravenous gadolinium contrast medium enhancement. Enhanced visualization of nerve roots and spinal cord pathology.
Who uses CPT code 72142?
CPT 72142 is used by Neurosurgery, Neurology, Radiology. Used for evaluation of spinal cord syrinx, arachnoiditis, infection, and enhanced lesion characterization. Gadolinium administration improves visualization of inflammatory and pathologic conditions.
When is CPT 72142 used?
Used for evaluation of spinal cord syrinx, arachnoiditis, infection, and enhanced lesion characterization. Gadolinium administration improves visualization of inflammatory and pathologic conditions.
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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.