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CPT 77072: Skeletal Maturity X‑ray (Hand and Wrist)
CPT code 77072 denotes a diagnostic radiograph used to determine skeletal (bone) maturity, typically by imaging the left hand and wrist of a child. The measurement of bone age informs clinical management of growth disorders, endocrine evaluations, and timing of interventions. Nationally, the code is a routine component of pediatric imaging workflows and intersects with outpatient radiology billing and pediatric specialty care.
Key payers addressed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise explanation of the clinical purpose of the code, typical settings where the service is performed, and an overview of payer coverage patterns. The publication outlines common modifiers associated with imaging claims and provides benchmarks and policy context relevant to reimbursement and coding practice. It also situates CPT code 77072 within clinical pathways for assessment of growth and skeletal development.
This summary is written for a national audience and is intended to clarify the code’s clinical role, typical sites of service, and the scope of payers included in the analysis. Data not available in the input are noted where specific payer policies, associated taxonomies, and ICD‑10 mappings would otherwise be detailed.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 77072 describes a radiographic procedure used to assess skeletal maturity in children by obtaining an X‑ray image, most commonly of the left hand and wrist. The procedure establishes bone age relative to chronological age to assist clinical decisions in pediatric endocrinology, growth disorder evaluation, and related specialties.
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Service type: Diagnostic radiography for assessment of skeletal maturity
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Typical site of service: Outpatient radiology department, hospital radiology unit, or pediatric clinic imaging suite