78351 Bone mineral dual photon
Also known as: DPA bone density, dual photon absorptiometry
Bone mineral density measurement using dual photon absorptiometry performed for comprehensive skeletal density assessment.
In Plain Language
bone density test; osteoporosis scan
Clinical Context
Measures bone mineral density in spine and hip for osteoporosis screening and monitoring. More sensitive than single photon technique.
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 78351?
CPT 78351 (Bone mineral dual photon) is a Radiology code. Bone mineral density measurement using dual photon absorptiometry performed for comprehensive skeletal density assessment.
Who uses CPT code 78351?
CPT 78351 is used by Nuclear Medicine, Orthopedics, Radiology. Measures bone mineral density in spine and hip for osteoporosis screening and monitoring. More sensitive than single photon technique.
When is CPT 78351 used?
Measures bone mineral density in spine and hip for osteoporosis screening and monitoring. More sensitive than single photon technique.
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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.