78290 Intestine imaging
Also known as: intestinal imaging, bowel imaging
Intestinal imaging performed using nuclear medicine to visualize small and large intestinal anatomy and function.
In Plain Language
intestine scan; bowel imaging test
Clinical Context
Assesses bowel inflammation, Meckel diverticulum (with specific agent), and gastrointestinal anomalies.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.66 |
| Total RVU | 0.66 |
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 0.66, this code ranks in the 41st percentile among Radiology codes — 1.2x below the median (0.81). The highest wRVU in this category is 11.57.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 78290?
CPT 78290 (Intestine imaging) is a Radiology code. Intestinal imaging performed using nuclear medicine to visualize small and large intestinal anatomy and function.
Who uses CPT code 78290?
CPT 78290 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Gastroenterology, Radiology. Assesses bowel inflammation, Meckel diverticulum (with specific agent), and gastrointestinal anomalies.
When is CPT 78290 used?
Assesses bowel inflammation, Meckel diverticulum (with specific agent), and gastrointestinal anomalies.
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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.