Ct abd wo cntrst flwd cntrst
CPT 74170 is a CT (computed tomography) scan of the abdomen performed in two phases: first without contrast dye, then with contrast dye injected to highlight blood vessels and organs.
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
Conversion factor: 32.3465 · Source: CMS MPFS RVU25A · Confidence: High
NCCI bundling edits
Loading bundling edits…
Billing tips
Verify documentation includes explicit mention of both pre-contrast and post-contrast phases with separate image sets reviewed
Impact: Missing documentation of dual-phase imaging can result in downcoding to 74160 (without contrast only), reducing reimbursement by approximately $40-60
Ensure radiology report documents medical necessity for both phases, not just contrast-enhanced imaging alone
Impact: Lack of justification for pre-contrast phase may trigger denial or request for 74177 (with contrast only) instead, affecting payment
Do not bill 74170 when pelvis is also imaged; use 74176 (CT abdomen and pelvis without and with contrast) instead
Impact: Incorrect code selection can result in $50-100 underpayment and potential audit risk for unbundling
Check for NCCI edits before billing 74170 with same-day procedures; common conflicts include other abdominal imaging codes
Impact: Bundling violations can result in 100% denial of secondary procedure without appropriate modifier 59 documentation
Bill globally (without modifiers) when performed in freestanding center where facility owns equipment and employs interpreting physician
Impact: Split billing when not appropriate can trigger compliance reviews and delay payment by 30-60 days
Verify contrast administration documentation includes type, amount, route, and timing relative to image acquisition
Impact: Inadequate contrast documentation can result in downcoding to 74150 or 74160, reducing payment by $50-80
Real billers contribute denial patterns and appeal strategies for this code. Once 5+ reports come in, you’ll see live aggregated data here — the only place this exists, free.
Get the free Revenue Protection Toolkit — the denial triggers, modifier pitfalls, and bundling conflicts that quietly cost you reimbursement. Instant download.
Help build the field knowledge
MedPayIQ gets smarter as billers contribute. If you've had this code denied, share what happened so others learn from it. Anonymous, no patient info.