73580 Contrast x-ray of knee joint
Also known as: Knee arthrogram
Arthrographic examination of the knee joint with contrast injection followed by radiographic imaging to visualize menisci, articular cartilage, and ligamentous structures.
In Plain Language
Knee X-ray with contrast dye injection
Clinical Context
Evaluates meniscal tears, cartilage defects, and ligament injuries. Largely replaced by MRI but still used when MRI is contraindicated.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.58 |
| Total RVU | 0.58 |
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 0.58, this code ranks in the 36th percentile among Radiology codes — 1.4x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 73580?
CPT 73580 (Contrast x-ray of knee joint) is a Radiology code. Arthrographic examination of the knee joint with contrast injection followed by radiographic imaging to visualize menisci, articular cartilage, and ligamentous structures.
Who uses CPT code 73580?
CPT 73580 is used by Radiology, Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine. Evaluates meniscal tears, cartilage defects, and ligament injuries. Largely replaced by MRI but still used when MRI is contraindicated.
When is CPT 73580 used?
Evaluates meniscal tears, cartilage defects, and ligament injuries. Largely replaced by MRI but still used when MRI is contraindicated.
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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.