CPT 73552Radiology

X-ray exam of femur 2/>

CPT code 73552 covers an X-ray examination of the femur (thighbone) that includes at least two different views or angles. This diagnostic imaging helps doctors evaluate fractures, bone lesions, or other abnormalities in the thigh bone.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$34.61

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

0.18

PE RVU (NF)

0.87

MP RVU

0.02

Total RVU

1.07

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Verify minimum view requirement is met - at least 2 views must be documented. If only one view is obtained, code 73551 should be used instead.
Impact: Prevents denials and recoupment; billing 73552 for single-view studies can result in $34.61 overpayment flagged in audits
Always append RT or LT modifier to specify laterality as required by most payers including Medicare for anatomically paired structures.
Impact: Prevents automatic denials requiring resubmission; reduces payment delays by 15-30 days on average
Split bill with modifier 26 and TC when professional and technical services are provided by different entities to ensure both components receive appropriate payment.
Impact: Ensures complete reimbursement when services are split; failure to split bill can result in 50-60% payment loss for one provider
Document medical necessity clearly with specific indication (trauma, pain, suspected fracture, follow-up) linked to appropriate ICD-10 code to support the order.
Impact: Reduces denial rate by approximately 25-40% and minimizes audit risk for unnecessary imaging
Do not bill bilateral procedures with modifier 50 for femur X-rays; instead bill 73552-RT and 73552-LT separately or use 73552-59 if appropriate.
Impact: Ensures correct payment for bilateral studies; improper modifier 50 use typically results in denial or 50% payment reduction
Verify that the study was not performed within the global period of a related surgical procedure, which would bundle imaging into the surgical payment.
Prevents denials and recoupment demands; billing during global period without modifier 79 can trigger 100% recoupment

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT 73552 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement for CPT 73552 is $34.61 for both facility and non-facility settings. This rate is based on 1.07 total RVUs multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465. Actual payment may vary by geographic locality based on the GPCI adjustments in your area.

What is the difference between CPT 73551 and 73552?

CPT 73551 covers a femur X-ray with a minimum of one view, while CPT 73552 requires at least two views. The number of radiographic projections obtained determines which code to bill. If only a single AP or lateral view is taken, use 73551. When two or more views (typically AP and lateral) are obtained, bill 73552 at the higher reimbursement rate.

Do I need to use a modifier when billing CPT 73552 for a right femur X-ray?

Yes, you should append modifier RT for right femur or LT for left femur when billing CPT 73552. Medicare and most commercial payers require laterality modifiers for all anatomically paired structures. Failure to include the appropriate modifier typically results in claim denial or suspension pending clarification.

How many RVUs is CPT code 73552 worth in 2025?

CPT 73552 has a total of 1.07 RVUs in 2025, consisting of 0.18 work RVUs, 0.87 practice expense RVUs (both facility and non-facility), and 0.02 malpractice RVUs. These values are from the CMS Medicare Physician Fee Schedule RVU25A released December 23, 2024.

Can I bill CPT 73552 for both legs on the same day?

Yes, you can bill CPT 73552 for bilateral femur X-rays when medically necessary. Bill as two separate line items: 73552-RT for the right femur and 73552-LT for the left femur. Do not use modifier 50 (bilateral procedure) for radiology codes. Some payers may require modifier 59 on the second line to indicate a distinct service, though this varies by payer policy.

What diagnosis codes support medical necessity for CPT 73552?

Common supporting diagnosis codes include femur fractures (S72.x codes), thigh contusions or injuries (S70.x-S79.x), bone pain (M79.6), pathological fractures (M84.x), malignant neoplasms with bone metastases, osteoarthritis, and post-surgical follow-up codes (Z47.x, Z98.x). The specific ICD-10 code should accurately reflect the clinical indication documented in the physician's order.

Does CPT 73552 include the professional interpretation or just the X-ray?

CPT 73552 is a global code that includes both the technical component (equipment, technologist, supplies) and professional component (physician interpretation and report). When these services are split between different providers, use modifier TC for the technical component and modifier 26 for the professional component. Each modifier typically represents 40-60% of the total allowed amount.