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CPT 73218: MRI Upper Extremity (Non‑Joint), Without Contrast
CPT code 73218 represents a non‑contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of the upper extremity when the imaging focus is on an anatomical location other than a joint. This diagnostic procedure is widely used to evaluate soft tissue, tendons, muscles, nerves, and bone pathology in the arm, forearm, wrist, and hand when intra‑articular assessment with contrast is not required. Nationally, MRI codes like 73218 are important for imaging utilization, care pathways for musculoskeletal complaints, and billing consistency across outpatient imaging centers and hospital radiology departments. Key payers commonly involved in coverage and reimbursement for this service include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers of this publication will find a concise clinical context for the procedure, typical sites of service where it is performed, and an overview of payer coverage patterns and common billing modifiers used with the code. The report also covers benchmarking and policy considerations relevant to imaging utilization, documentation expectations that support medical necessity, and operational implications for radiology practices and hospital billing teams. Data not available in the input will be noted where applicable.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 73218 describes a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the upper extremity, performed for an anatomical location other than a joint, without contrast. The procedure is diagnostic in nature and produces cross‑sectional images of soft tissues, bones, and related structures in the upper limb outside of joint spaces.
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Service type: Diagnostic imaging — MRI of the upper extremity (non‑joint), without contrast
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Typical site of service: Outpatient imaging centers or hospital radiology departments
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