Ct abd & pelv w/contrast

What is CPT Code 74177?

CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast. A comprehensive imaging study used to evaluate abdominal pain, suspected appendicitis, kidney stones, bowel obstruction, and many other conditions. One of the highest-volume CT studies.

The Medicare reimbursement rate shown above is the amount the federal government has determined is a reasonable payment for this service. Hospitals and providers that participate in Medicare have agreed to accept these rates from Medicare patients.

Who typically bills this:Radiologist (interpretation) + hospital or imaging center (technical)

Common Billing Errors for CPT 74177

• !Billed separately as abdomen CT (74160) and pelvis CT (72193) instead of the combined code
• !IV contrast billed as a separate drug charge on top of the combined code's included contrast
• !Radiologist interpretation billed on a different date than the scan without explanation

Red Flags on Your Bill

Negotiation Tips for CPT 74177

1. 1If you see separate abdomen and pelvis CT codes, ask whether 74177 (combined) should have been billed instead — the combined code is cheaper
2. 2The Medicare rate for 74177 is roughly $200–$250 physician + facility; chargemaster rates of $3,000–$8,000 are common and negotiable
3. 3For non-emergency CTs, an outpatient imaging center can be 60–75% cheaper than a hospital

Codes That Often Appear With This One

These CPT codes commonly appear on the same bill. Review each one to spot potential bundling errors or duplicate charges.

Found CPT 74177 on Your Bill?

If you see CPT code 74177 on a hospital or medical bill, compare the charged amount to the Medicare rate above. If your bill shows a significantly higher charge, you may have grounds to negotiate.

1. Note the amount charged for CPT 74177 on your itemized bill
2. Compare it to the Medicare rate above — calculate the markup
3. Call the billing department and use the Medicare rate as your anchor:“I see CPT code 74177 billed at [amount]. The Medicare rate for this procedure is $315.20. I'd like to discuss a fair adjustment.”