Which CPT code is used for cervical spine radiographs?

Which CPT code is used for cervical spine radiographs?

• A. 72050
• B. 72220
• C. 72120
• D. 72040

Answer: (D)

Focusing on the region being imaged is key here. CPT codes for spinal radiographs are organized by the area of the spine: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, etc. The code designated for imaging the cervical spine is the one that specifically identifies the neck region. That’s why the cervical spine radiographs use 72040. The other codes correspond to other parts of the spine (thoracic or lumbar) and wouldn’t describe a cervical study. So when the study targets the neck, 72040 is the appropriate code. If multiple regions were imaged in the same encounter, you’d generally use separate codes for each region per payer rules.

Focusing on the region being imaged is key here. CPT codes for spinal radiographs are organized by the area of the spine: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, etc. The code designated for imaging the cervical spine is the one that specifically identifies the neck region. That’s why the cervical spine radiographs use 72040. The other codes correspond to other parts of the spine (thoracic or lumbar) and wouldn’t describe a cervical study. So when the study targets the neck, 72040 is the appropriate code. If multiple regions were imaged in the same encounter, you’d generally use separate codes for each region per payer rules.