CPT code 71120 denotes a two-view radiographic study of the sternum used to identify structural and pathologic conditions of the breast bone, such as fracture, infection, or deformity. As a focused diagnostic imaging code, it is a routine component of musculoskeletal and trauma evaluations where sternal assessment is clinically indicated. Nationally, accurate coding of this study affects claims processing, clinical documentation, and downstream imaging utilization metrics.

Key payers in the national landscape include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of the clinical context for ordering the study, common billing and documentation considerations, and benchmarking information where available. The publication summarizes payer coverage patterns, typical sites of service, and coding nuances relevant to radiology departments and outpatient imaging centers.

This analysis provides clinicians, billing staff, and policy analysts with a concise reference to the clinical purpose of the code, the settings where the service is performed, and the payer mix most commonly involved. Data not available in the input are identified where applicable.