CPT 70496: CT Angiography of Head (CTA Head)
CT angiography of the head — a CT with IV contrast that maps the blood vessels of the brain. Used to evaluate aneurysms, stroke, and vascular disease.
Category: Imaging | Typical bill: $1,200 - $6,000
⚠️ Prior authorization: Yes — commonly required
🎯 Am I being overcharged?
Enter what your bill says for CPT 70496 and we'll flag it against a typical fair range for this service.
Why your CT Angiography of Head (CTA Head) bill looks so high
Hospitals bill a "rack rate" that is often 2-10x higher than what Medicare pays or what insurers actually reimburse. The fair range for CPT 70496 is roughly $1,200 - $6,000 — but many facilities bill far beyond it.
Common reasons 70496 claims get denied
- Requires prior authorization, denied without it. CTA is frequently pre-authorized. If it was an emergency, request retro-authorization; otherwise obtain pre-auth before re-scheduling.
- Contrast-related 'medical necessity' question. Ensure the ordering physician documents the clinical indication (e.g., suspected aneurysm) in the medical record.
Because CTA involves contrast, documentation of the clinical indication is critical in any appeal. Attach the radiology order note.
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