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73721 MRI jnt of lower extre without dye

Radiology

Also known as: Lower extremity joint MRI without contrast, MRI knee without contrast, knee MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging of a single lower extremity joint without gadolinium contrast to assess articular cartilage, ligaments, and intra-articular structures.

In Plain Language

MRI of one leg joint without dye

Clinical Context

Focused evaluation of ankle, knee, or hip joint pathology including ligament tears, meniscal lesions, and cartilage damage.

RVU Breakdown

Work RVU1.32
Total RVU1.32

Est. Medicare Payment

$44.09

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

RadiologyOrthopedic SurgerySports Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CPT code 73721?

CPT 73721 (MRI jnt of lower extre without dye) is a Radiology code. Magnetic resonance imaging of a single lower extremity joint without gadolinium contrast to assess articular cartilage, ligaments, and intra-articular structures.

Who uses CPT code 73721?

CPT 73721 is used by Radiology, Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine. Focused evaluation of ankle, knee, or hip joint pathology including ligament tears, meniscal lesions, and cartilage damage.

When is CPT 73721 used?

Focused evaluation of ankle, knee, or hip joint pathology including ligament tears, meniscal lesions, and cartilage damage.

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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.