CPT 71555Radiology

Mri angio chest w or w/o dye

CPT 71555 covers magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the blood vessels in the chest, with or without contrast dye, used to visualize arteries and veins in the thoracic region for conditions like aneurysms, blockages, or vascular malformations.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$327.67

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

1.81

PE RVU (NF)

8.2

MP RVU

0.12

Total RVU

10.13

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Always verify whether contrast was used and ensure documentation explicitly states 'with contrast,' 'without contrast,' or 'without contrast followed by with contrast' to support code selection over 71550 (without contrast) or 71555
Impact: Incorrect code selection between 71550 ($269.58) and 71555 ($327.67) results in $58.09 underpayment or potential upcoding allegations
Bill global code 71555 only when practice owns equipment AND provides interpretation; otherwise split with modifier 26 (professional) or TC (technical) to match actual service provided
Impact: Incorrect component billing triggers recoupment of 60-65% of payment ($196-213) if technical component not actually provided
Append modifier 59 when billing 71555 same day as other chest imaging (like 71250 chest CT) only if separate clinical indication exists and is documented in separate orders and reports
Impact: Prevents NCCI bundling denials that would eliminate the $327.67 payment entirely; saves 100% of reimbursement
Verify pre-authorization before scheduling as most commercial payers require prior auth for MRA studies; include specific ICD-10 codes supporting medical necessity like I71.2 (thoracic aortic aneurysm) or I27.0 (primary pulmonary hypertension)
Impact: Missing pre-authorization results in automatic denial with 50-100% payment reduction even on appeal; impacts full $327.67
Document technologist time, sequences performed, and any technical difficulties in the technical report; physician must document review of prior studies and specific clinical correlation in interpretation
Impact: Comprehensive documentation reduces audit risk and supports medical necessity, protecting against recoupment of $327.67 plus penalties

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT 71555 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement rate for CPT 71555 is $327.67 for both facility and non-facility settings. This rate is based on 10.13 total RVUs (1.81 work RVU + 8.2 PE RVU + 0.12 MP RVU) multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465. Actual payment may vary based on geographic locality adjustments.

What is the difference between CPT 71555 and 71550?

CPT 71555 is MRI angiography of the chest performed with or without contrast dye, while CPT 71550 is MRI chest without contrast material (non-angiography). Code 71555 specifically focuses on vascular imaging and vessel visualization, whereas 71550 evaluates general chest structures. CPT 71555 reimburses at $327.67 compared to 71550 at $269.58, reflecting the additional technical complexity of angiographic imaging.

Does CPT 71555 require prior authorization from Medicare?

Traditional Medicare typically does not require prior authorization for CPT 71555, but Medicare Advantage plans usually do require pre-authorization. Additionally, many commercial insurance payers mandate prior authorization for all MRI angiography studies. Always verify authorization requirements with the specific payer before scheduling, as non-compliance results in automatic denials even when medically necessary.

Can CPT 71555 be billed with both modifier 26 and TC?

No, a single provider cannot bill both modifier 26 (professional component) and TC (technical component) for the same service. However, two different providers can split bill - one provider bills 71555-26 for the interpretation and another bills 71555-TC for the equipment and technical staff. When one entity provides both components, bill global code 71555 without modifiers.

What diagnosis codes support medical necessity for CPT 71555?

Common supporting ICD-10 codes include I71.2 (thoracic aortic aneurysm), I71.00-I71.03 (aortic dissection), I27.0 (primary pulmonary hypertension), I27.82 (chronic pulmonary embolism), Q25.1-Q25.4 (congenital aortic anomalies), and R07.89 (chest pain). The specific diagnosis must demonstrate medical necessity for vascular imaging and align with payer coverage policies and ACR Appropriateness Criteria.

How many RVUs is CPT code 71555 worth in 2025?

CPT 71555 has a total of 10.13 RVUs in 2025, consisting of 1.81 work RVUs, 8.2 practice expense RVUs (both facility and non-facility), and 0.12 malpractice RVUs. This relatively high RVU value reflects the technical complexity and resource intensity of magnetic resonance angiography imaging.

Can CPT 71555 be billed on the same day as a CT angiography chest?

Yes, but only with appropriate documentation of distinct clinical indications and use of modifier 59 to indicate a separate service. Each study must answer a different clinical question or be performed for different anatomic concerns. Without clear documentation of medical necessity for both studies, payers will likely bundle or deny one service as duplicative, even with modifier 59 appended.