CPT 73522Radiology

X-ray exam hips bi 3-4 views

CPT code 73522 covers a bilateral hip x-ray examination using 3 to 4 different views. This means both hips are imaged from multiple angles to evaluate bone structure, joint alignment, and potential abnormalities.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$52.40

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

0.29

PE RVU (NF)

1.31

MP RVU

0.02

Total RVU

1.62

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Document the exact number of views obtained (3 or 4) in the radiology report and technical notes to support code selection
Impact: Prevents downcoding to 73521 (1-2 views) which reimburses approximately $15-20 less, or audit requests requiring medical record submission
Verify bilateral imaging was actually performed; if only one hip was imaged, bill 73521 instead to avoid denial for incorrect code selection
Impact: Using 73522 for unilateral imaging results in 100% claim denial and rebilling delays of 30-60 days
When performed in a hospital or facility setting, ensure split billing with modifier 26 for professional interpretation to maximize total reimbursement
Impact: Proper component billing ensures both facility and physician receive appropriate payments totaling $52.40
Check for recent duplicate imaging; Medicare and most payers deny repeat hip x-rays within 30 days unless medical necessity is clearly documented
Impact: Undocumented repeat studies result in denial; proper documentation of clinical change or inadequate prior study preserves full $52.40 payment
Link appropriate ICD-10 diagnosis codes that support bilateral imaging necessity, such as M16.0 (bilateral primary osteoarthritis of hip) rather than unilateral codes
Impact: Unilateral diagnosis codes with bilateral imaging triggers medical necessity denials; correct coding prevents 20-30% of initial denials
For workers' compensation or auto injury cases, obtain pre-authorization before performing 73522 as many payers require prior approval for bilateral studies
Lack of pre-authorization results in 100% denial even when medically appropriate; prior auth adds 2-3 days but ensures payment

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT code 73522 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement rate for CPT 73522 is $52.40 for both facility and non-facility settings. This rate is calculated using 1.62 total RVUs multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465. Actual payment may vary based on geographic locality adjustments.

What is the difference between CPT 73521 and 73522?

CPT 73521 covers a bilateral hip x-ray with minimum (1-2) views, while 73522 requires 3-4 views of both hips. The additional views in 73522 provide more comprehensive evaluation from multiple angles. Code 73520 covers unilateral hip imaging with 1 view, and 73523 covers bilateral hips with 5+ views for complete studies.

How many RVUs is CPT code 73522 worth?

CPT 73522 has a total of 1.62 RVUs for 2025, consisting of 0.29 work RVUs, 1.31 practice expense RVUs (both facility and non-facility), and 0.02 malpractice RVUs. The RVU values are identical for facility and non-facility settings because this is a technical procedure.

Can I bill CPT 73522 with modifier RT or LT for one hip?

No, CPT 73522 is inherently a bilateral code covering both hips. Using RT or LT modifiers is inappropriate and will cause claim denials or processing errors. If imaging only one hip, use CPT 73520 (unilateral, 1 view) or other unilateral hip x-ray codes depending on the number of views obtained.

What diagnosis codes support medical necessity for CPT 73522?

Bilateral diagnosis codes best support 73522, including M16.0 (bilateral primary hip osteoarthritis), M16.2-M16.3 (bilateral dysplastic or post-traumatic osteoarthritis), Q65.1 (congenital hip dislocation bilateral), or M87.05x (bilateral idiopathic aseptic necrosis). Unilateral diagnosis codes may trigger medical necessity denials.

How often can CPT 73522 be billed for the same patient?

Medicare and most commercial payers do not have a specific frequency limitation for 73522, but repeat imaging within 30-90 days typically requires documentation of clinical change, new trauma, or inadequacy of prior study. Routine repeat studies without documented medical necessity will be denied as duplicates.

Do I need a separate order for CPT 73522 or can it be included in a standing order?

CPT 73522 requires a specific physician order documenting the clinical indication for bilateral hip imaging with 3-4 views. Standing orders are generally not acceptable for diagnostic radiology services. The order must be dated, include the reason for the exam, and be signed by the ordering provider prior to the service being performed.