77085 Dxa bone density axl vrt fracture
Also known as: DEXA with VFA, Vertebral fracture assessment
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measurement of axial skeleton including vertebral fracture assessment.
In Plain Language
Bone density scan with check for spine fractures
Clinical Context
Combined bone mineral density measurement and vertebral fracture assessment. Identifies asymptomatic vertebral fractures that significantly impact fracture risk.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.29 |
| Total RVU | 0.29 |
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 0.29, this code ranks in the 18th percentile among Radiology codes — 2.8x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 77085?
CPT 77085 (Dxa bone density axl vrt fracture) is a Radiology code. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measurement of axial skeleton including vertebral fracture assessment.
Who uses CPT code 77085?
CPT 77085 is used by Radiology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology. Combined bone mineral density measurement and vertebral fracture assessment. Identifies asymptomatic vertebral fractures that significantly impact fracture risk.
When is CPT 77085 used?
Combined bone mineral density measurement and vertebral fracture assessment. Identifies asymptomatic vertebral fractures that significantly impact fracture risk.
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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.