72147 MRI chest spine with dye
Also known as: thoracic spine MRI with contrast, enhanced T-spine imaging, gadolinium-enhanced thoracic myelography
Magnetic resonance imaging of the thoracic spine with intravenous gadolinium contrast medium enhancement. Enhanced visualization of thoracic cord and nerve pathology.
In Plain Language
mid-back spine scan with dye; enhanced thoracic imaging
Clinical Context
Used for thoracic cord lesions, syrinx, arachnoiditis, and infection evaluation. Gadolinium enhancement improves characterization of 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 72147?
CPT 72147 (MRI chest spine with dye) is a Radiology code. Magnetic resonance imaging of the thoracic spine with intravenous gadolinium contrast medium enhancement. Enhanced visualization of thoracic cord and nerve pathology.
Who uses CPT code 72147?
CPT 72147 is used by Neurosurgery, Neurology, Radiology. Used for thoracic cord lesions, syrinx, arachnoiditis, and infection evaluation. Gadolinium enhancement improves characterization of pathologic conditions.
When is CPT 72147 used?
Used for thoracic cord lesions, syrinx, arachnoiditis, and infection evaluation. Gadolinium enhancement improves characterization of 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.