CPT 75605Radiology

Contrast exam thoracic aorta

CPT 75605 covers a contrast-enhanced imaging exam of the thoracic aorta (the main artery in the chest). This involves injecting contrast dye and taking X-ray images to evaluate the aorta for aneurysms, dissections, or other abnormalities.

Showing rates for

National Average

Base Medicare rate

$116.77

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

1.14

PE RVU (NF)

2.33

MP RVU

0.14

Total RVU

3.61

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

NCCI bundling edits

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Billing tips

Verify whether catheter placement codes (36200-36248) are separately billable or included based on the approach and vessel accessed
Impact: Can add $150-$400 in additional reimbursement if catheter placement is separately billable and not bundled per NCCI edits
Document contrast type, volume, and route of administration explicitly in the procedure report
Impact: Missing contrast documentation is a common audit trigger that can result in 100% recoupment ($116.77) plus penalties
When performed with CT or MRI of the thoracic aorta, ensure clear documentation of why traditional angiography was medically necessary
Impact: Prevents medical necessity denials; cross-sectional imaging may be considered duplicative without proper justification
Bill globally (without modifiers) only when your facility owns equipment AND provides professional interpretation
Impact: Incorrect global billing when splitting services can trigger overpayment recoveries of approximately $60-70 per claim
Use date-specific documentation to support same-day procedures with modifier 76 or 77, including indication for repeat study
Impact: Proper documentation prevents denials of repeat procedures worth $116.77 and supports medical necessity on appeal
Check NCCI edits quarterly for bundling changes with cardiac catheterization codes (93451-93464)
Impact: Bundling violations result in automatic denials; staying current prevents 15-20% of preventable claim rejections

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Medicare reimbursement rate for CPT 75605 in 2025?

The 2025 Medicare national average reimbursement for CPT 75605 is $116.77 for both facility and non-facility settings. This rate is calculated using a total RVU of 3.61 (Work RVU: 1.14, PE RVU: 2.33, MP RVU: 0.14) multiplied by the 2025 conversion factor of 32.3465.

Can CPT 75605 be billed with cardiac catheterization codes?

CPT 75605 may be bundled with cardiac catheterization codes depending on NCCI edits. Review current bundling rules, as aortography performed as part of a cardiac catheterization may be included in the catheterization codes (93451-93464). Use modifier 59 only when thoracic aortography is performed as a distinct diagnostic procedure separate from cardiac evaluation.

What is the difference between CPT 75605 and 75600?

CPT 75605 specifically describes contrast examination of the thoracic aorta, while 75600 covers aortography of the abdominal aorta. The codes are anatomically distinct and should be selected based on which portion of the aorta is being imaged. If both thoracic and abdominal aorta are imaged, verify payer rules regarding billing both codes or using 75625 for complete aortography.

Do I need modifier 26 or TC when billing CPT 75605?

Use modifier 26 when billing only the professional component (physician interpretation and report). Use modifier TC when billing only the technical component (equipment, supplies, staff). Bill without modifiers (globally) only when the same entity provides both components. Split billing is common when hospital owns equipment but radiologist provides interpretation.

What documentation is required to support medical necessity for CPT 75605?

Documentation must include specific clinical indication (suspected dissection, aneurysm, trauma), why invasive imaging is necessary over non-invasive alternatives, contrast administration details, radiological supervision documentation, and a formal interpretation report. For Medicare, the indication should align with coverage policies, particularly when CTA or MRA might be first-line alternatives.

How many RVUs is CPT code 75605 worth in 2025?

CPT 75605 has a total of 3.61 RVUs in 2025, broken down as: 1.14 work RVUs, 2.33 practice expense RVUs (both facility and non-facility), and 0.14 malpractice RVUs. These values are from the CMS Medicare Physician Fee Schedule released December 23, 2024.

Can CPT 75605 be billed for CT angiography or MR angiography of the thoracic aorta?

No, CPT 75605 is specifically for traditional contrast angiography using catheter-based or direct injection techniques with fluoroscopic or radiographic imaging. CT angiography of the thoracic aorta is reported with 71275, and MR angiography uses code 71555. These are distinct modalities and should not be confused when coding.