77086 Vrt fracture assmt via dxa
Also known as: Vertebral fracture assessment, VFA
Vertebral fracture assessment via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.
In Plain Language
X-ray check for broken bones in the spine
Clinical Context
Targeted assessment of spine for occult vertebral fractures. Separate service when VFA is performed independently from bone density measurement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.17 |
| Total RVU | 0.17 |
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 0.17, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Radiology codes — 4.8x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 77086?
CPT 77086 (Vrt fracture assmt via dxa) is a Radiology code. Vertebral fracture assessment via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.
Who uses CPT code 77086?
CPT 77086 is used by Radiology, Rheumatology. Targeted assessment of spine for occult vertebral fractures. Separate service when VFA is performed independently from bone density measurement.
When is CPT 77086 used?
Targeted assessment of spine for occult vertebral fractures. Separate service when VFA is performed independently from bone density measurement.
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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.