CPT® Code 73218

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a sophisticated imaging technique utilized to visualize the internal structures of the upper extremity, specifically the arm, excluding the joints. This non-invasive procedure leverages the magnetic properties of hydrogen atoms present in the body, allowing for detailed imaging without the use of ionizing radiation. During the MRI process, the patient is positioned on a motorized table that moves into a large cylindrical scanner, which houses a powerful magnet. The magnetic field generated by the scanner aligns the hydrogen atoms in the body. Subsequently, radiowaves are emitted within this magnetic field, causing the protons in various tissues to emit specific radiofrequency signals. These signals are captured and processed by a computer, which constructs high-resolution, three-dimensional images of the scanned area. The MRI of the upper extremity is particularly valuable for diagnosing a range of conditions, including injuries, trauma, or unexplained pain, as it provides clearer images of soft tissues compared to other imaging modalities like computed tomography (CT). In the context of CPT® Code 73218, the procedure is performed without the administration of contrast material, distinguishing it from other related codes that involve contrast agents. The resulting images are critical for physicians to assess various conditions such as tendinitis, muscle atrophy, soft tissue and bone lesions, osteomyelitis, contusions, hematomas, and fractures, thereby aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.