Current Procedural Terminology, or CPT codes, form a universally accepted language used by medical professionals for administrative and billing purposes. This standardized system allows every medical service to be represented by a unique five-digit code. The code CPT 72148 identifies a specific type of advanced medical imaging procedure.
Decoding CPT 72148: The Specific Procedure
The imaging procedure most readers are looking for is a Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, of the thoracic spine, which is the mid-back region consisting of the 12 vertebrae from T1 to T12. An MRI is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to generate highly detailed cross-sectional images of the spine, spinal cord, and surrounding soft tissues. This technique is distinctly different from X-rays or CT scans because it does not use ionizing radiation, relying instead on the body’s natural water content.
The specific code CPT 72148 is technically designated for an MRI of the lumbar spine, which is the lower back region, and not the thoracic spine. However, the procedure described here is the thoracic spine MRI, and the “without contrast” descriptor is a crucial part of the process. This means that no intravenous (IV) injection of a contrast agent, such as gadolinium, is administered during the scan. Contrast materials are typically used to enhance the visibility of blood vessels, tumors, or inflammation, but for many initial evaluations, the native detail provided by the non-contrast scan is sufficient.
Clinical Indications for a Thoracic MRI
A physician may order a thoracic spine MRI without contrast to investigate a variety of symptoms or specific medical conditions affecting the mid-back. This type of imaging is often the preferred method for assessing soft tissue structures like the spinal cord and intervertebral discs. The scan is commonly used to investigate unexplained mid-back pain that has not responded to conservative treatments, or pain that radiates into the chest or abdomen.
An MRI is highly effective in evaluating several conditions:
- Suspected spinal cord compression, which can cause symptoms like numbness, weakness, or problems with bladder or bowel control.
- Trauma, such as vertebral compression fractures, where it can determine the age of the fracture and assess stability.
- Signs of demyelinating diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.
- Degenerative disc disease in the thoracic region.
Patient Experience: What Happens During the Scan
The preparation for this procedure is minimal, generally involving the removal of all metal objects, including jewelry, watches, and any metal-containing clothing, due to the powerful magnetic field. You will typically be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie on a padded table that slides into the large, tube-shaped MRI machine, also known as the bore.
During the imaging sequences, the machine generates very loud, repetitive knocking or thumping sounds, which are caused by the internal coils rapidly turning on and off. For this reason, earplugs or specialized headphones will be provided and must be worn. The entire process for a thoracic spine MRI without contrast typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. Throughout the duration of the scan, you must remain absolutely still, as any movement can blur the images and require the sequence to be repeated.