72265 Myelography l-s spine
Also known as: Lumbar myelography, Lumbosacral myelography, L-S myelography
Myelographic examination of the lumbosacral spine using intrathecal contrast injection and radiographic imaging to visualize the spinal cord and nerve roots in the lower back.
In Plain Language
X-ray of lower back spine with contrast dye; Lower spine cord imaging
Clinical Context
Assesses lumbar and sacral nerve root compression, spinal stenosis, and arachnoiditis. Valuable for surgical planning in patients with complex pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.81 |
| Total RVU | 0.81 |
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 0.81, this code ranks in the 51st percentile among Radiology codes — exactly at the median. The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 72265?
CPT 72265 (Myelography l-s spine) is a Radiology code. Myelographic examination of the lumbosacral spine using intrathecal contrast injection and radiographic imaging to visualize the spinal cord and nerve roots in the lower back.
Who uses CPT code 72265?
CPT 72265 is used by Radiology, Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery. Assesses lumbar and sacral nerve root compression, spinal stenosis, and arachnoiditis. Valuable for surgical planning in patients with complex pathology.
When is CPT 72265 used?
Assesses lumbar and sacral nerve root compression, spinal stenosis, and arachnoiditis. Valuable for surgical planning in patients with complex pathology.
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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.