CPT code 72141 refers to a type of MRI scan that looks at the neck area of the spine without using a special dye for detailed images. CPT 72141 represents “Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, spinal canal and contents, cervical; without contrast material.”
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to create pictures of the cervical area, which is the part of the spine in the neck. It does this without using any contrast agents, which are special dyes that help highlight specific areas in the body but are not needed in this type of imaging.
Common Names:
- Non-contrast Cervical Spine MRI
- MRI Cervical Spine Without Dye
- No-Contrast Neck MRI
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 1.48.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Cervical Spine MRI (No Contrast)
- Surgical Consent Form Name: MRI of Neck Spine Without Contrast
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This MRI scan is commonly used for patients experiencing chronic neck pain, numbness in the arms or hands, or issues with physical coordination that might be linked to spine problems. It helps in diagnosing conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis, where the space within the backbone is too tight.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M50.20: Cervical disc disorder with radiculopathy, a condition where the nerve roots in the spine are affected, causing pain or numbness radiating down the arms.
- M48.02: Spinal stenosis in the cervical region, which is the narrowing of the spinal canal that can lead to nerve pressure.
- M54.2: Cervicalgia, which refers simply to neck pain that may or may not be associated with an injury.
Summary
In summary, code 72141 describes an MRI scan of the neck spine that does not use contrast material. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 72141 include M50.20 (Cervical disc disorder with radiculopathy) and M48.02 (Spinal stenosis in the cervical region).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.