72149 MRI lumbar spine with dye
Also known as: lumbar spine MRI with contrast, enhanced L-spine imaging, gadolinium-enhanced lumbar myelography, MRI lumbar spine with contrast
Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine with intravenous gadolinium contrast medium enhancement. Enhanced visualization of lumbar nerve roots and spinal cord.
In Plain Language
lower back spine scan with dye; enhanced lumbar imaging
Clinical Context
Used for evaluation of arachnoiditis, scarring from previous surgery, infection, and enhanced lesion characterization. Gadolinium improves visualization of pathologic enhancement.
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 72149?
CPT 72149 (MRI lumbar spine with dye) is a Radiology code. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine with intravenous gadolinium contrast medium enhancement. Enhanced visualization of lumbar nerve roots and spinal cord.
Who uses CPT code 72149?
CPT 72149 is used by Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Radiology. Used for evaluation of arachnoiditis, scarring from previous surgery, infection, and enhanced lesion characterization. Gadolinium improves visualization of pathologic enhancement.
When is CPT 72149 used?
Used for evaluation of arachnoiditis, scarring from previous surgery, infection, and enhanced lesion characterization. Gadolinium improves visualization of pathologic enhancement.
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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.