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CPT 73721
Imaging

MRI of the knee, without contrast

What it means

An MRI of your knee — typically for ligament tears or persistent pain.

Typical price range
$400 – $2,200

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.

Common billing errors to watch for
  • Facility fee larger than the imaging charge itself.
  • Contrast MRI code (73722) billed when no dye was used.
What to do

Outpatient cash rates run $400–$700. Ask for the self-pay rate.

Frequently asked questions

What does CPT code 73721 mean?

An MRI of your knee — typically for ligament tears or persistent pain. In billing terms it's categorized as "MRI of the knee, without contrast" under Imaging.

How much should CPT 73721 cost?

Typical negotiated and cash-pay rates run about $400–$2,200. 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 73721 covered by insurance?

Most commercial plans and Medicare cover mri of the knee, 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 73721 looks wrong on my bill?

Outpatient cash rates run $400–$700. Ask for the self-pay rate.

Can I dispute a charge for CPT 73721?

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.