CPT 73702Radiology

Ct lwr extremity w/o&w/dye

CPT code 73702 is used for a CT scan of the lower extremity (leg, ankle, or foot) performed both without contrast dye and then repeated with contrast dye injected into a vein.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$192.14

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

1.22

PE RVU (NF)

4.65

MP RVU

0.07

Total RVU

5.94

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Verify that documentation clearly shows both non-contrast AND post-contrast image acquisition with separate dictation of findings from each phase
Impact: Prevents downcoding to 73700 (without contrast only) which pays approximately $50-60 less
Confirm contrast administration documentation includes type, amount, route, and medical necessity for dual-phase imaging
Impact: Missing contrast documentation can trigger automatic denial or reduction to non-contrast code, losing $50+ in reimbursement
Bill split/shared E/M services separately when CT is ordered during facility encounter, using modifier 25 on the E/M code, not the imaging code
Impact: Preserves full $192.14 payment for 73702 while allowing additional E/M reimbursement
Use specific laterality modifiers (RT/LT) and ensure they match ordering physician documentation and medical record
Impact: Required by most Medicare MACs and commercial payers; missing modifiers cause claim suspension averaging 15-30 day payment delay
Do not bill 73702 with 73700 or 73701 for same anatomic area on same date of service
Impact: Creates bundling issue and automatic denial; 73702 already includes both non-contrast and contrast phases
For bilateral studies, check payer policy on whether to bill as two units or use modifier 50; most require documentation of medical necessity for both sides
Impact: Incorrect bilateral billing can result in 50% payment reduction or denial of second side without proper documentation

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between CPT 73700, 73701, and 73702?

CPT 73700 is CT lower extremity without contrast, 73701 is with contrast only, and 73702 is without contrast followed by with contrast (dual-phase study). Code 73702 includes both non-contrast and post-contrast imaging sequences and reimburses at $192.14, reflecting the additional work and imaging time required for the complete dual-phase protocol.

How much does Medicare pay for CPT code 73702 in 2025?

Medicare pays $192.14 for CPT 73702 in 2025 under the national average rate for both facility and non-facility settings. This is based on 5.94 total RVUs multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465. Actual payment may vary by geographic locality.

Can I bill CPT 73702 for bilateral lower extremity CT scans?

CPT 73702 describes a unilateral study. For bilateral studies, check specific payer policy—some require billing two units, others require modifier 50, and some may have specific bilateral codes. Documentation must justify medical necessity for scanning both lower extremities on the same date of service.

What diagnosis codes support medical necessity for CPT 73702?

Common supporting diagnoses include soft tissue masses or tumors (C49.2-, D21.2-), vascular malformations (Q27.8), osteomyelitis (M86.-), complex fractures requiring surgical planning, suspected abscess (L02.-), and suspected vascular compromise. Always verify coverage through your local Medicare Administrative Contractor LCD.

Do I need prior authorization for CPT 73702?

Prior authorization requirements vary by payer and state. Many Medicare Advantage plans and commercial insurers require pre-authorization for advanced imaging including CT with contrast. Check specific payer policies before scheduling to avoid denial. Some states participate in Medicare's prior authorization programs for advanced imaging.

What are the RVU values for CPT 73702 in 2025?

CPT 73702 has a Work RVU of 1.22, Practice Expense RVU of 4.65 (both facility and non-facility), and Malpractice RVU of 0.07, for a total of 5.94 RVUs. These values are from the CMS Medicare Physician Fee Schedule RVU25A released December 23, 2024.

When should I use modifier 26 or TC with CPT 73702?

Use modifier 26 when billing only the professional component (radiologist interpretation) if the technical component is billed separately by the facility. Use modifier TC when billing only the technical component (equipment, staff, supplies) if the professional interpretation is billed separately. Do not append modifiers when billing the complete global service.