Mri abdomen w/contrast
CPT code 74182 covers an MRI scan of the abdomen performed with contrast dye injected into the patient's vein to enhance image quality and help detect abnormalities in organs like the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and intestines.
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
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Billing tips
Always verify contrast administration is documented in the radiology report and nursing notes before billing 74182 instead of 74181 (without contrast)
Impact: Incorrect code selection can result in $50-75 payment difference and potential recoupment during audits
Bill professional and technical components separately when radiologist and facility have different tax IDs to maximize facility payment
Impact: Proper component billing ensures full $297.26 total reimbursement split appropriately between parties
Include specific ICD-10 codes documenting medical necessity such as liver lesion characterization, pancreatic mass evaluation, or inflammatory bowel disease complications
Impact: Prevents medical necessity denials which account for 35-40% of 74182 claim rejections
Do not bill 74182 with 74183 (MRI abdomen with and without contrast) as 74183 is the comprehensive code that includes both contrast phases
Impact: Unbundling error results in 100% denial of the incorrectly billed code plus potential fraud investigation
Verify pre-authorization requirements for non-Medicare payers before scheduling; many commercial plans require prior auth for advanced imaging
Impact: Lack of pre-authorization leads to automatic denial; appeal success rate is only 15-20% for missing prior auth
Document contrast type, dose, route, and time of administration to support medical necessity and defend against audit inquiries
Impact: Complete contrast documentation reduces audit recoupment risk by 60-70% based on OIG audit patterns
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