25246 Injection for wrist x-ray
Also known as: wrist arthrography, contrast injection wrist
Injection of contrast material into the wrist joint for radiographic imaging (arthrography) to visualize intra-articular structures.
In Plain Language
injecting dye in wrist for imaging
Clinical Context
Performed for diagnostic imaging of wrist cartilage, ligaments, and other intra-articular structures. Increasingly replaced by MRI.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.41 |
| Total RVU | 1.41 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.41, this code ranks in the 8th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 25246?
CPT 25246 (Injection for wrist x-ray) is a Surgery code. Injection of contrast material into the wrist joint for radiographic imaging (arthrography) to visualize intra-articular structures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 25246?
The work RVU for CPT 25246 is 1.41. This code is primarily used by Radiology, Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery.
When is CPT 25246 used?
Performed for diagnostic imaging of wrist cartilage, ligaments, and other intra-articular structures. Increasingly replaced by MRI.
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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.