CPT code 70496 represents CT angiography of the head with intravenous contrast, a widely used diagnostic imaging procedure to visualize cerebral vasculature for stroke evaluation, aneurysm assessment, and vascular malformation detection. Nationally, this service is important for acute neurovascular care pathways and influences hospital imaging utilization, emergency department workflows, and outpatient vascular workups. The code bundles noncontrast images and post–processing when performed, clarifying billing scope for combined image sets.

Key payers considered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of clinical context and service settings, common modifiers and billing considerations, and how this code is positioned relative to related CT and angiography services. The publication outlines typical sites of service and operational implications for facilities providing contrast-enhanced head vascular imaging.

This summary equips billing managers, radiology administrators, and policy analysts with a concise reference to the clinical purpose and billing scope of CPT code 70496, plus what to expect in payer coverage reviews and coding workflows. Data not available in the input will be noted where applicable in detailed sections.