CPT code 70488 represents a computed tomography (CT) examination of the maxillofacial region performed with initial non-contrast imaging followed by contrast-enhanced imaging. This combined-protocol CT is used to evaluate facial bones, the upper jaw, and adjacent soft tissues for trauma, infection, tumors, or preoperative planning. Nationally, the code matters because it defines reporting for a two-phase maxillofacial CT that can affect imaging resource utilization, clinical decision-making, and payer coverage rules.

Key payers in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise explanation of the code’s clinical intent and typical service settings, plus coverage and billing considerations relevant to major national payers. The publication also outlines common billing modifiers and related administrative considerations (Data not available in the input for taxonomies and ICD-10 mappings). The content is intended to help coding professionals, radiology administrators, and policy analysts understand where CPT code 70488 fits within diagnostic imaging workflows, how it is described for claims submission, and what operational contexts—such as outpatient imaging centers and hospital radiology suites—are typical for the service.