73218 MRI upper extremity without dye
Also known as: Upper extremity MRI without contrast, Arm MRI non-contrast
Magnetic resonance imaging of the upper extremity without intravenous gadolinium contrast to assess soft tissue, bone, and neurovascular structures.
In Plain Language
MRI scan of the arm without dye
Clinical Context
Evaluates soft tissue injuries, bone marrow lesions, complex fractures, and neurovascular pathology. Preferred imaging for rotator cuff assessment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.32 |
| Total RVU | 1.32 |
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 1.32, this code ranks in the 73rd percentile among Radiology codes — 1.6x the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 73218?
CPT 73218 (MRI upper extremity without dye) is a Radiology code. Magnetic resonance imaging of the upper extremity without intravenous gadolinium contrast to assess soft tissue, bone, and neurovascular structures.
Who uses CPT code 73218?
CPT 73218 is used by Radiology, Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine. Evaluates soft tissue injuries, bone marrow lesions, complex fractures, and neurovascular pathology. Preferred imaging for rotator cuff assessment.
When is CPT 73218 used?
Evaluates soft tissue injuries, bone marrow lesions, complex fractures, and neurovascular pathology. Preferred imaging for rotator cuff assessment.
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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.