72285 Discography cervical/thoracic spine
Also known as: Cervical discography, Thoracic discography
Discographic examination with contrast injection into intervertebral discs of the cervical and/or thoracic spine combined with radiographic imaging to assess disc integrity and morphology.
In Plain Language
X-ray of spinal discs with dye injection; Disc imaging of neck and upper back
Clinical Context
Evaluates internal disc disruption, discogenic pain, and pre-operative surgical planning. Increasingly complemented by disc anesthesia testing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.13 |
| Total RVU | 1.13 |
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 1.13, this code ranks in the 64th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.4x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 72285?
CPT 72285 (Discography cervical/thoracic spine) is a Radiology code. Discographic examination with contrast injection into intervertebral discs of the cervical and/or thoracic spine combined with radiographic imaging to assess disc integrity and morphology.
Who uses CPT code 72285?
CPT 72285 is used by Radiology, Neurosurgery, Spine Surgery. Evaluates internal disc disruption, discogenic pain, and pre-operative surgical planning. Increasingly complemented by disc anesthesia testing.
When is CPT 72285 used?
Evaluates internal disc disruption, discogenic pain, and pre-operative surgical planning. Increasingly complemented by disc anesthesia testing.
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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.