Your doctor may instruct an MRI without contrast when he suspects knee, hip, or other joint symptoms in the lower extremity. The test is frequently billed using CPT code 73721 in medical billing.
Whether you read this code on your hospital bill or insurance claim, one would like to know what it is, what it costs, and why it was required. In this guide, we will take you through CPT code 73721, allied MRI CPT codes, the nature of the procedure, and how it relates to other common imaging codes.
What Is CPT Code 73721?
CPT code 73721 is a code representing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of any lower extremity joint without forced intervention by a contrast material.
- Hip MRI
- Knee MRI
- MRI of the ankle
- MRI of the foot joints
The part without contrast implies that there is no special dye used to highlight some tissues in the images during the test. The scan is based on magnetic fields and radio waves to present clear images of the joint.
Why Is CPT Code 73721 Used?
There are numerous reasons why doctors recommend an MRI lower extremity joint without contrast:
- Sports trauma (Ruptured ligament, cartilage injuries)
- Swinging or pain that has no obvious cause to the joints
- Suspected, but not detectable by X-ray, fractures
- Arthritis or joint degradation
- Postoperative surveillance
Soft tissues like muscles, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments can be better imaged using MRI than by X-rays or a CT scan. This is a help in appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Understanding MRI and CPT Codes
The CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes are some standardized codes being utilized in the United States to give a medical procedure bill. They facilitate communication between healthcare providers and insurance companies as regards to the services offered.
- CPT 73721 – MRI lower extremity joint, without contrast
- MRI CPT code: A catch-all refers to any MRI procedure code (of the brain, spine, joints, or other body parts)
- MRI head CPT code- This term is used as the MRI of the head (The brain and the associated areas)
- Brain MRI procedure code -The brain imaging MRI CPT codes are specific
CPT Code 73721 Vs. Other MRI Codes
There are many MRI CPT codes, and it can be confusing to know the difference. Let’s compare CPT code 73721 with some other common MRI and related procedure codes.
| CPT Code | Description |
| 73721 | MRI of the lower extremity joint without contrast |
| 73722 | MRI of the lower extremity joint with contrast |
| 73723 | MRI of the lower extremity joint without and with contrast |
| 70553 | MRI of the brain (with and without contrast) |
| 72148 | Procedure code for MRI lumbar spine without contrast |
| 72195 | CPT code for MRI pelvis without contrast |
The MRI Lower Extremity Joint Without Contrast Procedure
If your doctor guidelines a scan under CPT code 73721, here’s what you can expect:
- You are obliged to take off any metal objects and enter the MRI room. You should tell the technician in the case of metal implants or a pacemaker.
- You will lie on the MRI table, and the particular lower extremity joint on which the scan is to be taken will be positioned within the coil of an MRI machine.
- It will capture some of the photos from various angles. You might experience loud tapping or thumping noises — you will normally be given earplugs or headphones.
- It normally passes through a 20–45-minute scan.
- As there is no use of contrast dye, you are free to continue with normal activities, as this process is over.
When Is Contrast Needed?
Sometimes, your doctor may request a contrast scan (such as 73722 or 73723). Contrast has the effect of bringing out some tissues or blood vessels. As another example, when the doctor suspects a tumor or infection, they can use a contrast MRI to provide more specific information.
However, CPT code 73721 is sufficient without contrast for many joint injuries and degenerative changes.
Cost of CPT Code 73721
An MRI done using CPT code 73721 may cost significantly, and this variation is dependent on:
- Hospital versus imaging center location
- The existence of insurance
- Your deductible and copay
Generally, the fees can be estimated at between 500 US dollars and 3,000 US dollars in the United States before insurance. Your plan will determine how much you have to pay-in case you are covered.
Insurance and Prior Authorization
Most insurers also ask for prior authorization of the MRIs, particularly in non-emergencies. It implies that authorization of the doctor by the insurance firm is required to book the scan.
In case you notice CPT code 73721 in insurance paperwork, it can confirm one thing:
- Scan date and place
- That fits the part of the body that is scanned
- That your insurance covered the expected portion
Other Common MRI CPT Codes You Might See
While CPT code 73721 is specific to lower extremity joints without contrast, you may encounter these related codes:
- MRI head CPT code- Head MRIs and brain MRIs
- Brain MRI procedure code -Like above, but may differ depending on the presence of contrast or not
- CPT code of cervical MRI – Imaging of neck (cervical spine)
- CPT code of MRI lumbosacral without contrast- Lower back (lumbosacral spine) imaging
- MRI right hip CPT code – as a rule, billed under 73721, unless contrast is used
- CPT MRI brain CPT codes -Another nomenclature of MRI brain codes
- CPT code MRI knee and MRI knee non-contrast CPT code- Knee imaging, may be under 73721
- MRI lumbar spine procedure code- Spine imaging as opposed to joint imaging
CPT Codes and Orthopedic Surgery
MRIs have also caused surgeries or other interventions in the field of orthopedics. The codes include some that are related, such as:
- CPT code- TKA- Total Knee Arthroplasty (knee replacement)
- Knee replacement CPT code – This is like the TKA code, but can vary based on approach
- CT pelvis with contrast CPT code – Indicated when CT images are preferred to MRI
- They would be relevant when comparing imaging modalities before an operation.
How CPT Code 73721 Fits into Your Care Plan?
Without contrast, an MRI lower extremity joint without contrast is usually a part of a bigger treatment process. For example:
- Step 1: Your physician looks at your joint and has an X-ray done.
- Step 2: Once they find the X-ray normal but symptomatic, they arrange an MRI (CPT 73721).
- Step 3: Results determine treatment course: physical therapy, medicines, or even surgery.
Patient Tips for CPT Code 73721 MRI
- Check the Cost First- Ask your insurance and imaging center to give an estimated price.
- You know the Code- See that your paperwork shows 73721, you’d better get that test.
- As instructed, here is what to wear depending on the exercise.
- Remain Calm During the Scan – Attempt to remain at ease so that clear images can be made.
- And take a Copy of Your Images -Useful in case you want a second opinion.
Final Thoughts
CPT code 73721 is a billing code for an MRI of a lower extremity joint without contrast. It’s commonly used for knee, hip, ankle, or foot joint scans to diagnose injuries, arthritis, and other conditions.
By understanding this code, you can better navigate your medical bills, insurance claims, and treatment options. Always ask your healthcare provider to explain why a specific code was used and whether it’s the most appropriate test for your situation.
FAQs
Q:What does CPT code 73721 cover?
It covers an MRI of any lower extremity joint without contrast — knee, hip, ankle, or foot joint.
Q:Is CPT code 73721 the same as a knee MRI without contrast CPT code?
Yes, if the knee MRI is done without contrast, it’s typically billed as 73721.
Q:How is CPT code 73721 different from 73722?
73721 is without contrast; 73722 is with contrast.
Q:Do I need prior authorization for 73721?
Most insurance companies require it unless it’s an emergency.
