Summary & Overview
CPT 73706: Lower Extremity Computed Tomography Angiography
CPT code 73706 represents a diagnostic computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the lower extremity performed with intravenous contrast and optional noncontrast imaging. This CTA produces high-resolution vascular images and uses computerized post-processing to reconstruct optimal views for clinicians. Nationally, the code matters because CTA of the lower extremities is a key noninvasive tool for identifying peripheral arterial disease, aneurysms, thromboembolic disease, and limb-threatening ischemia, informing vascular and interventional management.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise clinical context for the procedure, typical sites of service, and the role of CTA in lower-extremity vascular evaluation. The publication outlines common billing and coding considerations, payer coverage patterns where available, and related service-line implications for radiology and vascular specialties. This resource is intended to help coding, billing, and clinical teams understand the clinical purpose and billing identity of CPT code 73706, along with what to expect in payer interactions and imaging workflow implications.
Data not available in the input: specific payer policies, claim-level benchmarks, ICD-10 mapping, and associated taxonomies.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 73706 describes a computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the lower extremity performed with intravenous contrast; noncontrast images may also be obtained. The procedure uses CT imaging and computerized post-processing to select and reconstruct the most relevant vascular views for evaluation. This radiology service is used for screening and diagnostic assessment of arterial disease, including detection of aneurysm, thrombosis, and ischemia in the lower extremity arteries.
Service type: Diagnostic radiology — vascular computed tomography angiography
Typical site of service: Hospital outpatient radiology departments, outpatient imaging centers, and advanced ambulatory care imaging suites
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 68-year-old male with a history of peripheral arterial disease, claudication on exertion, and poorly controlled diabetes presents with worsening left lower-extremity pain and decreased ankle-brachial index. The vascular surgeon requests imaging to evaluate for arterial stenosis, occlusion, aneurysm, or thrombus. The patient is scheduled for a computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the lower extremity using intravenous iodinated contrast, with noncontrast images as needed for baseline comparison. The typical clinical workflow: the ordering provider documents clinical indication and relevant labs (renal function). On arrival, the patient is screened for contrast allergy and renal insufficiency, IV access is placed, and pre-scan safety checks are completed. A CT technologist performs the scan, acquires contrast-enhanced arterial-phase images from the abdomen/pelvis through the tibial vessels as indicated, and captures noncontrast images if requested. The interpreting radiologist or vascular surgeon reconstructs images using computerized vessel-rendering software, performs multiplanar and 3D reconstructions, and issues a report describing arterial patency, stenosis degree, aneurysmal disease, and acute thrombus to guide endovascular or surgical planning. Typical site of service is an outpatient radiology or hospital imaging department, outpatient imaging center, or ambulatory surgical center when performed as part of pre-procedural planning.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component |