72146 MRI chest spine without dye
Also known as: thoracic spine MRI, T-spine MRI noncontrast, dorsal spine imaging, MRI thoracic spine without contrast, MRI T-spine
Magnetic resonance imaging of the thoracic spine without intravenous gadolinium contrast medium. Provides excellent soft tissue contrast of thoracic cord and neural structures.
In Plain Language
mid-back spine scan without dye; thoracic MRI imaging
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic myelopathy, cord pathology, and thoracic disc disease evaluation. Superior soft tissue contrast for detailed cord visualization.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.44 |
| Total RVU | 1.44 |
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 1.44, this code ranks in the 77th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.8x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 72146?
CPT 72146 (MRI chest spine without dye) is a Radiology code. Magnetic resonance imaging of the thoracic spine without intravenous gadolinium contrast medium. Provides excellent soft tissue contrast of thoracic cord and neural structures.
Who uses CPT code 72146?
CPT 72146 is used by Neurosurgery, Neurology, Orthopedic Surgery. Used for thoracic myelopathy, cord pathology, and thoracic disc disease evaluation. Superior soft tissue contrast for detailed cord visualization.
When is CPT 72146 used?
Used for thoracic myelopathy, cord pathology, and thoracic disc disease evaluation. Superior soft tissue contrast for detailed cord 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.