Ct abd & pelv 1/> regns

What is CPT Code 74178?

CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with and without contrast (biphasic study). Provides better tissue characterization than a single-phase scan, often ordered for cancer staging, liver or kidney lesion evaluation.

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 74178

• !Billed when only a single-phase scan (with or without) was actually performed
• !74177 and 74178 both billed on the same date for what was a single CT acquisition
• !Contrast agent billed as a separate pharmacy charge in addition to the procedural code

Red Flags on Your Bill

Negotiation Tips for CPT 74178

1. 174178 is more expensive than 74177 — confirm the imaging report explicitly notes both pre- and post-contrast phases
2. 2If the order was for a routine 'CT abdomen/pelvis with contrast' without biphasic specification, it should be 74177
3. 3Use the Medicare rate ($300–$400 physician + facility) as the anchor in negotiations

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 74178 on Your Bill?

If you see CPT code 74178 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 74178 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 74178 billed at [amount]. The Medicare rate for this procedure is $353.32. I'd like to discuss a fair adjustment.”