73115 Contrast x-ray of wrist
Also known as: Wrist arthrogram, Wrist contrast X-ray
Arthrographic examination of the wrist joint with contrast injection followed by radiographic imaging to visualize cartilage surfaces, ligamentous structures, and joint spaces.
In Plain Language
Wrist X-ray with contrast dye injection
Clinical Context
Evaluates wrist ligament tears, cartilage defects, intercarpal pathology, and triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions. Increasingly replaced by MRI and ultrasound.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.53 |
| Total RVU | 0.53 |
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 0.53, this code ranks in the 32nd percentile among Radiology codes — 1.5x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 73115?
CPT 73115 (Contrast x-ray of wrist) is a Radiology code. Arthrographic examination of the wrist joint with contrast injection followed by radiographic imaging to visualize cartilage surfaces, ligamentous structures, and joint spaces.
Who uses CPT code 73115?
CPT 73115 is used by Radiology, Hand Surgery, Interventional Radiology. Evaluates wrist ligament tears, cartilage defects, intercarpal pathology, and triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions. Increasingly replaced by MRI and ultrasound.
When is CPT 73115 used?
Evaluates wrist ligament tears, cartilage defects, intercarpal pathology, and triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions. Increasingly replaced by MRI and ultrasound.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.