72148 MRI lumbar spine without dye
Also known as: lumbar spine MRI, L-spine MRI noncontrast, lumbosacral imaging, MRI lumbar spine without contrast, MRI L-spine
Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine without intravenous gadolinium contrast medium. Excellent soft tissue contrast for evaluation of lumbar discs, spinal cord, and nerve roots.
Clinical Context
Most commonly used MRI study for low back pain, disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and radiculopathy. Standard of care for detailed lumbar pathology evaluation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.44 |
| Practice Expense RVU | 4.20 |
| Malpractice RVU | 0.10 |
| Total RVU | 5.74 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Specialties
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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.