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Official Description

Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, pelvis; without contrast material(s)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis is a sophisticated imaging technique that provides detailed images of the pelvic region and its internal structures. This noninvasive procedure utilizes the magnetic properties of hydrogen nuclei found in the body, allowing for the visualization of soft tissues without the use of ionizing radiation. During the MRI process, a powerful magnetic field is generated, which aligns the hydrogen atoms in the body. Subsequently, radio waves are transmitted through this magnetic field, causing the protons in various tissues to emit specific radiofrequency signals. These signals are captured by a computer, which processes the data to create high-resolution, three-dimensional sectional images of the pelvis. The patient undergoing this procedure is positioned on a motorized table that slides into a large MRI scanner, often referred to as a tunnel. To enhance the quality of the images, small coils may be strategically placed around the hip area to assist in the transmission and reception of radio waves. MRI of the pelvis is particularly useful for diagnosing a range of conditions, including injuries, trauma, congenital anomalies, and unexplained pain in the hip or pelvic region. In the context of CPT® Code 72195, the MRI is performed without the administration of contrast material, differentiating it from other related codes where contrast agents may be used to improve image clarity. This imaging modality is applicable to both males and females, serving various diagnostic purposes such as evaluating testicular or scrotal abnormalities in males and investigating issues like abnormal vaginal bleeding, endometriosis, pelvic masses, or infertility in females. The physician interprets the resulting images to identify potential correlations with the patient's clinical signs and symptoms, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis is indicated for a variety of clinical scenarios, particularly when detailed visualization of the pelvic structures is necessary. The following conditions and symptoms may warrant the use of this imaging technique:

  • Injury or Trauma MRI is often utilized to assess injuries to the pelvic region, including fractures or soft tissue damage that may not be visible on other imaging modalities.
  • Birth Defects This imaging can help identify congenital anomalies within the pelvic area, providing critical information for management and treatment.
  • Unexplained Hip or Pelvic Pain MRI is indicated for patients experiencing persistent or unexplained pain in the hip or pelvic region, aiding in the diagnosis of underlying conditions.
  • Testicular or Scrotal Abnormalities In males, MRI may be performed to evaluate lumps or swelling in the testicles or scrotum, as well as to locate undescended testicles that are not visible on ultrasound.
  • Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding For females, MRI can assist in diagnosing the causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding, providing insights into potential underlying issues.
  • Endometriosis MRI is a valuable tool in the evaluation of endometriosis, helping to visualize the extent of the disease and its impact on pelvic structures.
  • Pelvic Masses The imaging technique is also indicated for assessing pelvic masses, allowing for differentiation between benign and malignant lesions.
  • Unexplained Infertility MRI may be utilized in the workup of infertility to identify anatomical abnormalities that could be contributing to reproductive challenges.

2. Procedure

The procedure for performing an MRI of the pelvis without contrast involves several key steps to ensure accurate imaging and patient safety. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Patient Preparation Prior to the MRI, the patient is informed about the procedure, including what to expect during the scan. They may be asked to remove any metal objects, such as jewelry or clothing with metal fasteners, as these can interfere with the magnetic field. The patient is also screened for any contraindications to MRI, such as certain implanted medical devices.
  • Positioning The patient is positioned on a motorized table that is designed to slide into the MRI scanner. Proper positioning is crucial for obtaining high-quality images, and the patient may be asked to lie flat on their back with their legs extended. Padding may be used for comfort, and small coils may be placed around the hip area to enhance image quality.
  • Scanning Process Once the patient is positioned, the MRI technician will initiate the scanning process. The MRI machine generates a strong magnetic field, and radio waves are transmitted to the pelvic area. The patient may hear loud tapping or thumping noises during the scan, which is normal. The duration of the scan can vary but typically lasts between 20 to 45 minutes.
  • Image Acquisition During the scan, the MRI machine captures multiple images of the pelvic region from various angles. These images are processed by a computer to create detailed, high-resolution cross-sectional images of the pelvis. The absence of contrast material means that the images will rely solely on the natural differences in tissue density and composition.
  • Completion and Post-Procedure Care After the scanning is complete, the patient is assisted out of the MRI machine. There are generally no specific post-procedure restrictions, and patients can resume normal activities immediately unless otherwise instructed by their physician. The images are then reviewed by a radiologist, who will interpret the findings and provide a report to the referring physician.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the MRI of the pelvis, patients typically experience no significant side effects, as the procedure is noninvasive and does not involve the use of contrast material. Patients are usually able to return to their normal activities immediately after the scan. The radiologist will analyze the images obtained during the procedure and generate a report detailing the findings. This report is then sent to the referring physician, who will discuss the results with the patient and determine any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the findings. It is important for patients to communicate any concerns or symptoms they may have experienced during the procedure to their healthcare provider.

Short Descr MRI PELVIS W/O DYE
Medium Descr MRI PELVIS W/O CONTRAST MATERIAL
Long Descr Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, pelvis; without contrast material(s)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
Multiple Procedures (51) 4 - Special payment adjustment rules on the technical component (TC) of multiple diagnostic imaging procedures apply...
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 88 -
APC Status Indicator Codes That May Be Paid Through a Composite APC
ASC Payment Indicator Radiology service paid separately when provided integral to a surgical procedure on ASC list; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 4 - Diagnostic Radiology
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) I2D - Advanced imaging - MRI/MRA: other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 198 - Magnetic resonance imaging

This is a primary code that can be used with these additional add-on codes.

0649T Add-on Code MPFS Status: Carrier Priced APC S Quantitative magnetic resonance for analysis of tissue composition (eg, fat, iron, water content), including multiparametric data acquisition, data preparation and transmission, interpretation and report, obtained with diagnostic MRI examination of the same anatomy (eg, organ, gland, tissue, target structure); single organ (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
0698T Add-on Code Resequenced Code MPFS Status: Carrier Priced APC S ASC Z2 Quantitative magnetic resonance for analysis of tissue composition (eg, fat, iron, water content), including multiparametric data acquisition, data preparation and transmission, interpretation and report, obtained with diagnostic MRI examination of the same anatomy (eg, organ, gland, tissue, target structure); multiple organs (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
X5 Diagnostic services requested by another clinician: for reporting services by a clinician who furnishes care to the patient only as requested by another clinician or subsequent and related services requested by another clinician; this modifier is reported for patient relationships that may not be adequately captured by the above alternative categories; reporting clinician service examples include but are not limited to, the radiologist's interpretation of an imaging study requested by another clinician
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
TC Technical component; under certain circumstances, a charge may be made for the technical component alone; under those circumstances the technical component charge is identified by adding modifier 'tc' to the usual procedure number; technical component charges are institutional charges and not billed separately by physicians; however, portable x-ray suppliers only bill for technical component and should utilize modifier tc; the charge data from portable x-ray suppliers will then be used to build customary and prevailing profiles
MG The order for this service does not have applicable appropriate use criteria in the qualified clinical decision support mechanism consulted by the ordering professional
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
MH Unknown if ordering professional consulted a clinical decision support mechanism for this service, related information was not provided to the furnishing professional or provider
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
ME The order for this service adheres to appropriate use criteria in the clinical decision support mechanism consulted by the ordering professional
QQ Ordering professional consulted a qualified clinical decision support mechanism for this service and the related data was provided to the furnishing professional
Q6 Service furnished under a fee-for-time compensation arrangement by a substitute physician or by a substitute physical therapist furnishing outpatient physical therapy services in a health professional shortage area, a medically underserved area, or a rural area
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
77 Repeat procedure by another physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a basic procedure or service was repeated by another physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 77 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service.
52 Reduced services: under certain circumstances a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the physician or other qualified health care professional. under these circumstances the service provided can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 52, signifying that the service is reduced. this provides a means of reporting reduced services without disturbing the identification of the basic service. note: for hospital outpatient reporting of a previously scheduled procedure/service that is partially reduced or cancelled as a result of extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient prior to or after administration of anesthesia, see modifiers 73 and 74 (see modifiers approved for asc hospital outpatient use).
Q1 Routine clinical service provided in a clinical research study that is in an approved clinical research study
MC Ordering professional is not required to consult a clinical decision support mechanism due to the significant hardship exception of electronic health record or clinical decision support mechanism vendor issues
MF The order for this service does not adhere to the appropriate use criteria in the clinical decision support mechanism consulted by the ordering professional
CR Catastrophe/disaster related
53 Discontinued procedure: under certain circumstances, the physician or other qualified health care professional may elect to terminate a surgical or diagnostic procedure. due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well being of the patient, it may be necessary to indicate that a surgical or diagnostic procedure was started but discontinued. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 53 to the code reported by the individual for the discontinued procedure. note: this modifier is not used to report the elective cancellation of a procedure prior to the patient's anesthesia induction and/or surgical preparation in the operating suite. for outpatient hospital/ambulatory surgery center (asc) reporting of a previously scheduled procedure/service that is partially reduced or cancelled as a result of extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well being of the patient prior to or after administration of anesthesia, see modifiers 73 and 74 (see modifiers approved for asc hospital outpatient use).
76 Repeat procedure or service by same physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was repeated by the same physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 76 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service.
79 Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.)
95 Synchronous telemedicine service rendered via a real-time interactive audio and video telecommunications system: synchronous telemedicine service is defined as a real-time interaction between a physician or other qualified health care professional and a patient who is located at a distant site from the physician or other qualified health care professional. the totality of the communication of information exchanged between the physician or other qualified health care professional and the patient during the course of the synchronous telemedicine service must be of an amount and nature that would be sufficient to meet the key components and/or requirements of the same service when rendered via a face-to-face interaction. modifier 95 may only be appended to the services listed in appendix p. appendix p is the list of cpt codes for services that are typically performed face-to-face, but may be rendered via a real-time (synchronous) interactive audio and video telecommunications system.
AQ Physician providing a service in an unlisted health professional shortage area (hpsa)
CC Procedure code change (use 'cc' when the procedure code submitted was changed either for administrative reasons or because an incorrect code was filed)
FY X-ray taken using computed radiography technology/cassette-based imaging
GV Attending physician not employed or paid under arrangement by the patient's hospice provider
GW Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
GX Notice of liability issued, voluntary under payer policy
GY Item or service statutorily excluded, does not meet the definition of any medicare benefit or, for non-medicare insurers, is not a contract benefit
GZ Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary
KX Requirements specified in the medical policy have been met
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
MA Ordering professional is not required to consult a clinical decision support mechanism due to service being rendered to a patient with a suspected or confirmed emergency medical condition
MB Ordering professional is not required to consult a clinical decision support mechanism due to the significant hardship exception of insufficient internet access
PD Diagnostic or related non diagnostic item or service provided in a wholly owned or operated entity to a patient who is admitted as an inpatient within 3 days
Q5 Service furnished under a reciprocal billing arrangement by a substitute physician or by a substitute physical therapist furnishing outpatient physical therapy services in a health professional shortage area, a medically underserved area, or a rural area
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
X4 Episodic/focused services: for reporting services by clinicians who provide focused care on particular types of treatment limited to a defined period and circumstance; the patient has a problem, acute or chronic, that will be treated with surgery, radiation, or some other type of generally time-limited intervention; reporting clinician service examples include but are not limited to, the orthopedic surgeon performing a knee replacement and seeing the patient through the postoperative period
XE Separate encounter, a service that is distinct because it occurred during a separate encounter
XP Separate practitioner, a service that is distinct because it was performed by a different practitioner
XS Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure
XU Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service
Date
Action
Notes
2001-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2001.
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