CPT 73718Radiology

Mri lower extremity w/o dye

CPT code 73718 covers an MRI scan of the lower extremity (leg, ankle, or foot) performed without using contrast dye. This imaging test helps doctors see detailed pictures of bones, joints, muscles, and soft tissues to diagnose injuries or conditions.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$218.99

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

1.35

PE RVU (NF)

5.34

MP RVU

0.08

Total RVU

6.77

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Always append RT or LT modifier to specify laterality, as bilateral procedures are not typical for this code
Impact: Prevents automatic denials for missing laterality; reduces appeals by 30-40% for this code family
Verify medical necessity documentation includes specific clinical indication beyond 'pain' - document mechanism of injury, failed conservative treatment, or specific clinical findings
Impact: Improves first-pass acceptance rate by 25%; vague indications like 'knee pain' result in 15-20% denial rate
Do not bill 73718 with 73720 (with contrast) or 73721 (without and with contrast) for the same anatomical site on the same date - these are mutually exclusive
Impact: Prevents $218.99 denial and potential recoupment; one of the top 3 unbundling errors for MRI codes
When billing global service in non-facility setting, ensure both technical and professional components are documented; split billing with 26/TC modifiers when components performed at different locations
Impact: Proper modifier use prevents $40-60 underpayment when professional component performed separately
Confirm prior authorization obtained before service when required by payer; most commercial payers require pre-auth for advanced imaging
Impact: Prevents 100% payment denial ($218.99) for lack of authorization; auth denials have low appeal success rate
Document joint-specific anatomy in the order and report (knee vs ankle vs foot) as payer audits increasingly scrutinize appropriate code selection versus other lower extremity MRI codes
Reduces post-payment audit risk and potential recoupment demands averaging $200-300 per audited claim

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT code 73718 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average payment for CPT 73718 is $218.99 for both facility and non-facility settings. This rate is based on 6.77 total RVUs multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465. Actual payment may vary by geographic locality.

Does CPT 73718 include contrast dye administration?

No, CPT 73718 specifically describes MRI of the lower extremity without contrast material. If contrast is administered, you should use CPT 73720 (with contrast) or 73721 (without contrast followed by with contrast and further sequences) instead.

What lower extremity areas are covered under CPT code 73718?

CPT 73718 covers MRI of any lower extremity structure including the knee, lower leg (tibia/fibula), ankle, and foot. The code applies to unilateral imaging only; laterality must be specified with RT or LT modifier. It does not include hip or thigh imaging, which use different codes.

Do I need prior authorization for CPT 73718?

Medicare typically does not require prior authorization for 73718, though some Medicare Advantage plans do. Most commercial insurance payers require prior authorization for all advanced imaging including MRI. Always verify specific payer requirements before scheduling to avoid denials.

Can I bill CPT 73718 for both legs on the same day?

Yes, you can bill 73718 for bilateral lower extremity MRI studies performed on the same day. Report the code twice with RT modifier on one line and LT modifier on the other. Add modifier 59 to the second line to prevent bundling. Each study must be medically necessary and separately documented.

What are the work RVUs for CPT code 73718?

CPT 73718 has 1.35 work RVUs, 5.34 practice expense RVUs (non-facility), 5.34 practice expense RVUs (facility), and 0.08 malpractice RVUs, for a total of 6.77 RVUs in 2025 according to the CMS Physician Fee Schedule.

How do I bill professional component only for CPT 73718?

To bill only the professional component (radiologist interpretation), append modifier 26 to CPT 73718. This is appropriate when the technical component (equipment and technologist) is performed at a separate facility. The facility performing the technical component would bill 73718-TC.