Computed tomography, maxillofacial area; without contrast material, followed by contrast material(s) and further sections

CPT 70488 is the billing code for "Computed tomography, maxillofacial area; without contrast material, followed by contrast material(s) and further sections". For CT maxillofacial area without contrast followed by contrast

Medicare pays approximately $181.14 for CPT 70488 (national average). Actual payment varies by geographic location due to GPCI adjustments. Hospital and commercial insurance rates are typically 2-4x higher than Medicare rates.

CPT 70488 has a total RVU of 12.26, broken down as: Work RVU 1.60, Practice Expense RVU 10.50, and Malpractice RVU 0.16. RVUs (Relative Value Units) determine Medicare reimbursement rates.

Key documentation requirements for CPT 70488 include: Indication for CT maxillofacial; Without contrast followed by contrast; Contrast type and amount; Findings and interpretation. Missing or incomplete documentation is a leading cause of claim denials for this code.

Bundling considerations for CPT 70488: Includes CT maxillofacial with and without contrast. Includes interpretation and report Use an NCCI bundling checker to verify specific code combinations before billing.

Common modifiers for CPT 70488 include: 26 (Professional component only (interpretation)), TC (Technical component only (equipment/staff)), 59 (Distinct procedural service if performed separately). Modifiers indicate special circumstances and can affect reimbursement or prevent claim denials.

The typical time requirement for CPT 70488 is 30-40 minutes typical procedure time. Time-based codes require documentation of the actual time spent providing the service.