Mastering MRI CPT Codes 2025: Brain, Spine, Abdomen & Joints Demystified

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a vital diagnostic tool in modern medicine, offering clear and detailed views of internal organs, tissues, and bones without using harmful radiation. From detecting brain tumors to assessing spinal injuries and joint problems, MRIs help doctors make accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.

For medical billing and coding professionals, understanding and using the correct CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes is essential. Accurate coding ensures faster reimbursements, fewer claim denials, and smoother insurance processing. This blog will walk you through the most common MRI CPT codes for the brain, spine, abdomen, pelvis, and joints.

Brain & Head MRI Codes

MRIs of the brain and head are commonly ordered for patients with headaches, seizures, strokes, tumors, or vision issues.

• 70551 – MRI of the brain, without contrast
• 70553 – MRI of the brain, with and without contrast
• 70540 – MRI of the orbit (eye area), without contrast
• 70543 – MRI of the orbit, with and without contrast
• 70336 – MRI of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

Tip: Always confirm whether the scan was with or without contrast—this impacts both the CPT code and reimbursement.

Spine MRI Codes

Spine MRIs help detect herniated discs, spinal stenosis, infections, tumors, or nerve compression. Each section of the spine has its own set of CPT codes.

• 72141 – Cervical spine MRI without contrast
• 72146 – Thoracic spine MRI without contrast
• 72148 – Lumbar spine MRI without contrast
• 72156 – Cervical spine MRI with and without contrast
• 72157 – Thoracic spine MRI with and without contrast
• 72158 – Lumbar spine MRI with and without contrast

Tip: Be specific about which region of the spine was scanned to avoid claim errors.

Abdomen & Pelvis MRI Codes

These MRIs are used to evaluate organs such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, uterus, and bladder. They can detect cancers, injuries, and chronic conditions.

• 74181 – Abdomen MRI without contrast
• 74183 – Abdomen MRI with and without contrast
• 72195 – Pelvis MRI without contrast
• 72197 – Pelvis MRI with and without contrast

Tip: If both abdomen and pelvis are scanned in one session, check payer guidelines to determine if they require combined or separate billing.

Joint & Extremity MRI Codes

MRI scans of joints and extremities are common in sports medicine, orthopedics, and rheumatology for detecting injuries to ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.

• 73221 – Upper-extremity joint MRI (shoulder, elbow, wrist) without contrast
• 73223 – Upper-extremity joint MRI with and without contrast
• 73721 – Lower-extremity joint MRI (hip, knee, ankle) without contrast
• 73723 – Lower-extremity joint MRI with and without contrast
• 73218 / 73718 – Non-joint extremity MRI (upper or lower limb) without contrast

Why Contrast Usage Matters in Coding

Contrast agents, such as gadolinium, make certain tissues, blood vessels, or tumors more visible during MRI scans. The presence or absence of contrast changes the CPT code.

Key points to remember:

• “Without contrast” means no contrast agent was used.
• “With contrast” means contrast was used for the entire scan.
• “With and without contrast” means images were taken both before and after the contrast was given.

Incorrectly coding the contrast status can result in claim denials.

Tips for Accurate MRI CPT Coding

• Review the physician’s order – Verify the body part and whether contrast was used.
• Check payer rules – Many insurance companies require prior authorization for MRIs.
• Stay up to date – CPT codes are updated every year; using outdated codes can lead to rejections.
• Be specific – Use the correct code for the exact region scanned rather than a generic code.
• Document clearly – Proper clinical documentation supports accurate billing and reduces disputes.

Conclusion

Correct MRI CPT coding is critical for accurate billing, timely reimbursements, and compliance with insurance guidelines. Whether it’s a brain scan, spinal imaging, abdominal evaluation, or joint assessment, using the right CPT code saves time, reduces errors, and keeps your revenue cycle running smoothly.

To further optimize your medical billing process and ensure compliance with the latest coding standards, partnering with an experienced RCM company can make all the difference. Svast Healthcare Technologies is a trusted medical billing and revenue cycle management partner for healthcare providers across the U.S., offering expertise, accuracy, and technology-driven solutions to maximize reimbursements and reduce claim denials.