Commonly Used Mri Cpt Codes Explained: Brain, Spine, Abdomen & More

By Author: Charlie Robinson
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A correct diagnosis is the foundation of successful medical care, and that often starts with accurate imaging. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a highly advanced tool in modern healthcare, offering detailed visuals of the body’s internal structures. It is a non-invasive, painless, and effective technique used to identify injuries, illnesses, or irregularities in organs, soft tissues, and joints.
Healthcare professionals, including radiologists and physicians, rely on MRI scans regularly to evaluate conditions affecting the brain, spine, joints, and more. To categorize and bill each type of MRI correctly, providers use specific CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes. These codes support clear documentation, streamlined communication among care teams, and smooth insurance processing and reimbursement.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most widely used CPT codes for MRI procedures performed on different parts of the body.
Most Common MRI CPT Codes
To ensure precise medical billing and appropriate reimbursement, each type of MRI scan is associated with a specific CPT code. Below is a list of the ...
... most frequently used MRI CPT codes categorized by body area:
Brain and Neck MRI CPT Codes
MRI of the brain and neck plays a vital role in identifying various neurological and anatomical conditions. Scans may be performed with or without contrast depending on diagnostic requirements.
• 70551 – Brain MRI without contrast, used for routine evaluations.
• 70553 – Brain MRI with contrast, offering enhanced detail.
• 70544 – Neck MRI without contrast.
• 70547 – Neck MRI with and without contrast.
• 70549 – Neck MRI with contrast.
• 70540 – Orbit (eye region) MRI without contrast.
• 70543 – Orbit MRI with contrast.
• 70336 – TMJ (temporomandibular joint) MRI for evaluating jaw-related issues.
Spine MRI CPT Codes
Spinal MRIs are used to detect herniation, compression, infections, or degenerative disorders. The codes vary based on the spinal section and contrast use.
• 72141 – MRI of the lumbar spine without contrast.
• 72146 – MRI of the cervical spine without contrast.
• 72148 – Cervical spine MRI without contrast.
• 72156 – Thoracic spine MRI without contrast.
• 72157 – Thoracic spine MRI with contrast.
• 72158 – Cervical spine MRI with contrast.

Breast MRI CPT Codes
Breast MRIs assist in evaluating abnormal mammograms and screening patients at higher risk. The following CPT codes ensure proper documentation.
• 77059 – MRI of both breasts for comprehensive screening.
• 77021 – MRI of a single breast for focused analysis.

Joint MRI CPT Codes
Joint MRIs are commonly used to diagnose trauma, arthritis, tears, or infections. Using contrast can improve diagnostic accuracy.
• 73221 – Upper extremity joint MRI (shoulder/elbow/wrist) without contrast.
• 73223 – Upper extremity joint MRI with contrast.
• 73721 – Lower extremity joint MRI (hip/knee/ankle) without contrast.
• 73723 – Lower extremity joint MRI with contrast.
• 73131 – MRI of the ankle without contrast.
• 73133 – MRI of the ankle with contrast.
Extremities MRI CPT Codes
Extremity MRIs are useful for evaluating muscles, tendons, joints, and bones in the arms or legs.
• 73718 – MRI of both knees without contrast.
• 73720 – MRI of the thigh/lower leg with contrast.
• 73218 – Shoulder joint MRI without contrast.
• 73220 – Elbow joint MRI with contrast.
• 73505 – MRI of the foot without contrast.
• 73507 – MRI of the foot with contrast.

Abdomen MRI CPT Codes
Abdominal MRIs are essential for identifying problems in organs like the liver, pancreas, and kidneys. CPT codes vary by contrast usage.
• 74181 – MRI of the abdomen without contrast.
• 74183 – MRI of the pelvis without contrast.
• 74185 – MRI of lower extremity joints without contrast (commonly includes hips, knees, or thighs).

Pelvis MRI CPT Codes
Pelvic MRIs deliver detailed images of reproductive organs, bladder, and nearby tissues. These are often used to assess fibroids, cysts, and pelvic inflammation.
• 72195 – Pelvic MRI without contrast.
• 72197 – Pelvic MRI with contrast.
Contrast vs. Non-Contrast MRI
A key factor in selecting the correct MRI CPT code is determining if the scan was conducted with contrast, without contrast, or both. This distinction directly affects code selection and ensures accurate billing and reimbursement.
• Contrast MRI
In a contrast MRI, a special dye—most often gadolinium—is injected into a vein before or during the scan. This contrast agent enhances the visibility of internal structures, helping radiologists differentiate between normal and abnormal tissues. It is especially useful for examining the brain, spine, and internal organs. Contrast MRIs typically involve capturing two sets of images: one before the dye is administered and one after, allowing for better comparison and more accurate diagnosis of conditions like tumors, inflammation, infections, or vascular issues.

• Non-Contrast MRI
A non-contrast MRI is performed without the use of any injected dye. Around 85% of MRI procedures fall under this category, as they offer sufficient detail for diagnosing many common health concerns. These scans generate high-resolution images and are typically used for evaluating issues such as joint pain, spinal conditions, or large masses. Non-contrast MRIs are also preferred for patients with kidney problems or allergies to contrast agents and are widely used in imaging the brain, joints, and soft tissues when contrast enhancement isn’t essential.
Conclusion
Precise MRI CPT coding is essential for accurate documentation and billing of medical imaging procedures. Each code corresponds to a specific type of MRI—whether it's for the brain, spine, joints, or other body areas—and ensures that providers stay compliant while avoiding delays or rejections in insurance processing. This accuracy helps healthcare professionals concentrate on delivering excellent patient care rather than navigating billing issues.
Staying updated on the latest coding rules, CMS regulations, and applying the correct modifiers and ICD-10 codes is equally important. Doing so supports accurate claims and timely reimbursement. Struggling with MRI billing errors or CPT-related denials? 24/7 Medical Billing Services specializes in radiology billing and focuses on precise MRI CPT coding to ensure clean claims and faster payments. Reach out today for a free consultation or billing audit!

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