CPT 70015Radiology

Contrast x-ray of brain

CPT code 70015 represents a specialized x-ray of the brain that uses contrast dye to make blood vessels and abnormalities visible. This imaging technique helps doctors diagnose conditions affecting the brain's vascular system.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$158.82

This calculator gives a typical-case estimate using standard Medicare modifier rules. Actual payment depends on payer policies, documentation, code-specific CMS status indicators, and locality. Verify before billing.

RVU breakdown

Work RVU

1.19

PE RVU (NF)

3.66

MP RVU

0.06

Total RVU

4.91

Conversion factor: 32.3465 · Source: CMS MPFS RVU25A · Confidence: High

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Verify medical necessity documentation before submitting claims, as most payers consider 70015 outdated and require justification for why CT or MR angiography was not performed instead
Impact: Prevents denials that delay payment by 30-60 days and require appeals with supporting documentation
Check if payer has replaced this code with more specific cerebral angiography codes (70496, 70498) or considers it non-covered; many commercial payers no longer recognize 70015
Impact: Avoids claim rejections and ensures use of correct code for full $158.82 reimbursement
Document whether this is a global service or split billing (26/TC) at the time of service to ensure correct modifier application
Impact: Prevents overpayment recovery audits and ensures accurate payment distribution between facility and professional components
Append modifier 26 for professional component when performed in hospital setting where facility owns equipment
Impact: Ensures correct payment split rather than denial for duplicate billing or payment of wrong component
Include detailed radiology report with findings, views obtained, and medical necessity statement within 24-48 hours of service
Impact: Reduces audit risk and supports medical necessity if claim is flagged for review
Cross-reference diagnosis codes to ensure they support the medical necessity of contrast cerebral imaging rather than more modern alternatives
Impact: Diagnosis code mismatch is the leading cause of denials for this code, affecting 100% of reimbursement

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT code 70015 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement rate for CPT 70015 is $158.82 for both facility and non-facility settings. This is based on a total RVU of 4.91 and the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465.

Is CPT code 70015 still used or has it been replaced?

CPT 70015 remains in the code set but is rarely used in modern practice, having been largely replaced by CT cerebral angiography (70496) and MR angiography (70544-70546). Most facilities no longer perform conventional contrast x-ray of the brain due to superior imaging quality and safety profiles of newer modalities.

What is the difference between CPT 70015 and 70496?

CPT 70015 represents conventional x-ray imaging of the brain with contrast, while 70496 represents CT angiography of the head with contrast. CT angiography provides superior image quality, three-dimensional visualization, and is the current standard of care for cerebrovascular imaging, which is why 70015 is rarely performed today.

How many RVUs is CPT code 70015 worth in 2025?

CPT 70015 has a total RVU value of 4.91 in 2025, consisting of 1.19 work RVUs, 3.66 practice expense RVUs, and 0.06 malpractice RVUs. The PE RVU is the same (3.66) for both facility and non-facility settings.

Do I need modifier 26 or TC when billing CPT 70015?

Use modifier 26 when billing only the professional component (physician interpretation), modifier TC when billing only the technical component (equipment and technologist), or no modifier for global billing when the same entity provides both components. Split billing is common in hospital settings where the facility bills TC and the radiologist bills 26.

What diagnosis codes support medical necessity for CPT 70015?

Diagnosis codes supporting 70015 include cerebrovascular disease (I67.x), cerebral aneurysm (I67.1), arteriovenous malformation (Q28.2), stroke evaluation (I63.x), and vascular malformations. However, payers typically require documentation explaining why more modern imaging modalities were not appropriate before approving payment.

Can CPT 70015 be billed with other imaging codes on the same day?

Yes, but careful attention to bundling rules is required. Use modifier 59 when 70015 represents a distinct diagnostic service separate from other imaging. Many payers will bundle this with comprehensive neuroimaging studies unless you demonstrate it was a separate session with distinct clinical purpose and medical necessity.