CPT 70544Radiology

Mr angiography head w/o dye

CPT code 70544 represents an MR angiography (MRA) of the head performed without contrast dye, a specialized imaging test that uses magnetic fields to create detailed pictures of blood vessels in the brain and head.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$212.19

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

1.2

PE RVU (NF)

5.28

MP RVU

0.08

Total RVU

6.56

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Verify that the ordering physician has documented clear medical necessity beyond routine screening, as non-contrast MRA requires specific clinical indications
Impact: Prevents denials; approximately 15-20% of MRA claims denied for lack of medical necessity documentation
Bill 70544 only when NO contrast is used; if any contrast is administered, use 70545 (with contrast) or 70546 (without followed by with contrast and further sequences)
Impact: Incorrect code selection results in $30-150 underpayment or overpayment depending on actual study performed
Append modifier 26 for professional component billing in facility settings where the hospital owns the equipment
Impact: Ensures proper component billing; prevents denials and recoupments averaging $100-130 per claim
Document technical parameters including Tesla strength, sequences used (TOF, phase-contrast), and anatomical coverage in the report to support medical necessity
Impact: Reduces audit risk and supports reimbursement; detailed technical documentation decreases appeal timeframes by 30-45 days
Check for local coverage determinations (LCDs) and prior authorization requirements before scheduling, as many Medicare Administrative Contractors require pre-authorization for advanced neuroimaging
Impact: Prevents denials; unauthorized advanced imaging denials average 100% payment loss ($212.19 per claim)
Do not bill 70544 with 70551-70553 (brain MRI codes) without modifier 59 if performed same day; most payers consider these bundled unless distinct clinical questions are addressed
Prevents bundling denials; improper bundling results in $200-400 payment reduction per encounter

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT 70544 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement rate for CPT 70544 is $212.19 for both facility and non-facility settings. This rate is based on a total RVU of 6.56 multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465.

What is the difference between CPT 70544, 70545, and 70546?

CPT 70544 is MR angiography of the head without contrast material. CPT 70545 is MRA head with contrast material. CPT 70546 is MRA head without contrast followed by with contrast and further sequences. The codes differ based on whether and how contrast is used during the study.

Does CPT 70544 require prior authorization?

Prior authorization requirements vary by payer and region. Many Medicare Administrative Contractors and commercial payers do require prior authorization for advanced imaging including MRA studies. Always verify authorization requirements with the specific payer before scheduling the procedure to avoid denials.

Can you bill CPT 70544 and a brain MRI on the same day?

Yes, but it requires careful documentation and often modifier 59 to show the studies addressed distinct clinical questions. Many payers consider MRA bundled with brain MRI unless you can demonstrate separate medical necessity, such as vascular evaluation beyond routine brain parenchymal imaging.

What diagnosis codes support medical necessity for CPT 70544?

Diagnosis codes supporting 70544 include cerebral aneurysm (I67.1), cerebrovascular disease (I67.9), cerebral artery occlusion (I66.x), arteriovenous malformation (Q28.2), severe headaches (R51.9 with supporting documentation), family history of cerebrovascular disease (Z82.3), and stroke evaluation (I63.x series). Always verify payer-specific LCD requirements.

How many RVUs is CPT code 70544 worth?

CPT code 70544 has a total RVU value of 6.56 for 2025, consisting of 1.2 work RVUs, 5.28 practice expense RVUs (both facility and non-facility), and 0.08 malpractice RVUs according to the CMS Physician Fee Schedule.

What modifiers are most commonly used with CPT 70544?

The most common modifiers for 70544 are modifier 26 (professional component only, used when billing separately for interpretation), modifier TC (technical component only, for equipment and staff), and modifier 59 (distinct procedural service, when billing with other imaging same day). Modifier 76 or 77 may be used for repeat procedures when medically necessary.