Summary & Overview
CPT 71130: Sternoclavicular Joint Radiography, Minimum Three Views
CPT code 71130 denotes a diagnostic radiographic series of at least three views of the sternoclavicular joint(s). This targeted musculoskeletal X‑ray code is used to evaluate pain, instability, trauma, or suspected degenerative and inflammatory conditions affecting the sternoclavicular articulation. Nationally, correct coding of such focused radiography matters for accurate clinical documentation, appropriate imaging utilization, and consistent claims processing across payers.
Key payers in scope include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The publication outlines how CPT code 71130 is billed and categorized, common sites of service where the procedure is performed, and typical clinical contexts in which the series is ordered. Readers will find concise benchmarks for coding and billing prevalence where available, a summary of relevant payer coverage patterns, and a clinical context that links the procedure to typical diagnostic indications.
This resource provides a national perspective on the code’s purpose and operational considerations: what the code represents, where the service is commonly delivered, and what clinicians and billing staff should expect in payer coverage and claims workflows. Data not available in the input will be noted where appropriate in detailed sections.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 71130 describes a diagnostic radiographic procedure consisting of a minimum of three views of the sternoclavicular joint(s). The service type is diagnostic musculoskeletal radiography focused on the sternoclavicular articulation. The typical site of service is an outpatient radiology or imaging suite, including hospital outpatient departments, freestanding imaging centers, and clinic-based radiology services. If additional clinical or administrative details are required, Data not available in the input.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 42-year-old male presents to the outpatient radiology department with focal pain and swelling at the sternoclavicular region after a fall from a bicycle. The referring emergency physician documents localized tenderness over the medial clavicle with limited shoulder range of motion and concern for joint subluxation or fracture. The provider orders diagnostic radiographs of the sternoclavicular joint with a minimum of three views to assess alignment, joint space, and to identify acute fracture or degenerative change. The patient is registered for an imaging encounter; a radiologic technologist performs positioning for AP, serendipity (oblique), and supine weighted views, acquires images, and transmits them to the radiologist. The radiologist interprets the images, documents findings in the imaging report, and sends results to the referring clinician for management decisions such as immobilization, orthopedic referral, or advanced imaging (CT) if needed.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | When reporting only the physician interpretation separate from technical component |
TC | Technical component | When reporting only the technical portion of the imaging service |