CT scan of the head or brain, without contrast
A CT scan of your head without dye. Used to check for bleeding, stroke, or trauma. Fast and common in ERs.
Based on typical US negotiated and cash-pay rates. Hospital charges can run significantly higher — often 2–10x these numbers. If your bill is well above this range, it's worth questioning.
- Billed as 70460 (with contrast) or 70470 (with and without) when no dye was actually used.
- Radiologist fee AND facility fee both exceed the total often quoted for cash-pay.
- Multiple CT charges for the same body area same day.
Confirm with the radiology report whether contrast was used. Cash rates at outpatient imaging centers often run $250–$500 — a hospital charge many multiples of that is negotiable.
Frequently asked questions
What does CPT code 70450 mean?
A CT scan of your head without dye. Used to check for bleeding, stroke, or trauma. Fast and common in ERs. In billing terms it's categorized as "CT scan of the head or brain, without contrast" under Imaging.
How much should CPT 70450 cost?
Typical negotiated and cash-pay rates run about $250–$1,500. Hospital list prices are often 2–10× higher, but insurers rarely pay those. If your bill is well above the top of this range, ask for an itemized bill and compare.
Is CPT 70450 covered by insurance?
Most commercial plans and Medicare cover ct scan of the head or brain, without contrast when it's medically necessary and coded correctly. Denials usually come from missing prior authorization, incorrect modifiers, or the payer disputing medical necessity — all of which can be appealed.
What should I do if CPT 70450 looks wrong on my bill?
Confirm with the radiology report whether contrast was used. Cash rates at outpatient imaging centers often run $250–$500 — a hospital charge many multiples of that is negotiable.
Can I dispute a charge for CPT 70450?
Yes. You have the right to request an itemized bill, dispute the coding with the provider's billing office, and appeal the insurer's decision. Federal rules (including the No Surprises Act for emergency and out-of-network ancillary services) protect you from many surprise charges. BillCheck can generate the appeal or negotiation letter for you.
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BillCheck provides informational analysis only and is not legal, medical, or financial advice. Verify all details before submitting any correspondence to insurers or providers. Prices shown are typical ranges and vary by region, payer, and facility.