CPT 73140Radiology

X-ray exam of finger(s)

CPT code 73140 covers X-ray imaging of one or more fingers to diagnose fractures, dislocations, arthritis, infections, or foreign bodies. This is one of the most commonly performed diagnostic imaging procedures in emergency departments and urgent care settings.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$37.20

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

0.13

PE RVU (NF)

MP RVU

0.02

Total RVU

1.15

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Always append laterality modifiers (RT/LT) to prevent automatic denials and claim rejections
Impact: Prevents 15-20% of initial denials; saves resubmission costs averaging $25-40 per claim
Document the specific finger(s) imaged and number of views obtained in the radiology report to support medical necessity
Impact: Reduces audit risk by 60%; essential for post-payment review defense
Bill 73140 only once regardless of how many fingers are X-rayed in a single examination session
Impact: Code descriptor includes plural 'finger(s)' - billing per finger creates 100% denial risk for duplicate services
Verify the distinction between finger (73140) and hand (73130) X-rays based on anatomical area imaged
Impact: Hand X-rays reimburse at $42.00 (higher rate); incorrect coding leaves $4.80 on table or risks upcoding allegations
Split bill using modifier 26 and TC when professional and technical components performed by different entities
Impact: Ensures proper payment distribution; prevents double-billing flags that delay payment 30-45 days
Link appropriate ICD-10 diagnosis codes that clearly indicate medical necessity for imaging
Impact: Codes like S62 series (finger fracture), M19.04 series (finger OA), or S61 series (finger laceration with FB) reduce denial rate by 40%

Common denials

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT 73140 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement rate for CPT 73140 is $37.20 for both facility and non-facility settings. This rate is based on 1.15 total RVUs multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465.

Can I bill CPT 73140 for X-rays of multiple fingers on the same hand?

Yes, CPT 73140 covers radiographic examination of one or more fingers in a single code. You should bill 73140 only once regardless of how many fingers are imaged during the same session. The code descriptor specifically uses the plural 'finger(s)' to indicate this inclusive nature.

What is the difference between CPT 73140 and 73130?

CPT 73140 is for X-ray examination of finger(s) only, while CPT 73130 covers X-ray examination of the entire hand. The distinction is anatomical: 73140 focuses on the phalanges (finger bones), while 73130 includes the metacarpals, carpal bones, and overall hand structure. Choose based on what anatomical region was actually imaged.

Do I need to use modifier RT or LT with CPT 73140?

Yes, laterality modifiers RT (right) or LT (left) are required when billing CPT 73140 to indicate which hand's finger(s) were imaged. Most payers, including Medicare, mandate these modifiers for proper claim adjudication and will deny claims missing this information.

How many RVUs is CPT 73140 worth in 2025?

CPT 73140 has 1.15 total RVUs in 2025, consisting of 0.13 work RVUs, 1.00 practice expense RVUs (both facility and non-facility), and 0.02 malpractice RVUs. These values are from the CMS Medicare Physician Fee Schedule released December 23, 2024.

What diagnosis codes are typically used with CPT 73140?

Common diagnosis codes paired with CPT 73140 include S62.60 series (finger fractures), M19.04 series (primary osteoarthritis of hand joints), S61 series (open wounds with foreign body concerns), M25.54 series (finger pain), and M79.64 series (finger swelling). The diagnosis must clearly support the medical necessity for imaging.

Can CPT 73140 be billed with an E/M service on the same day?

Yes, CPT 73140 can be billed with an evaluation and management (E/M) service on the same day. If the E/M service is significant and separately identifiable from the decision to order the X-ray, append modifier 25 to the E/M code. The X-ray itself (73140) does not require a modifier in this scenario.