CPT Code 70450: CT scan of the head or brain, without contrast

Yes, Medicare covers CPT 70450 when medically necessary and appropriately documented. This includes cases involving stroke or intracranial bleeding, brain tumours or metastases, or other acute neurological events affecting the head and brain. Proper clinical documentation supports coverage and facilitates compliant revenue cycle management.

While there are no fixed frequency caps, CT scan duration variability and repeated use must be clinically justified. Payers may deny multiple non-contrast head scans if they are not supported by evidence of changing symptoms, new findings, or the need for ongoing evaluation, especially in complex conditions like progressive neurological disease.

Yes, CPT 70450 (CT of the brain or head without contrast) can be billed alongside neck CT codes when both regions require diagnostic evaluation. This often occurs in trauma cases or when symptoms span the head and neck, including paediatric cases. Be sure that pediatric neck CT scans (70480–70482) and head imaging are separately indicated and documented to ensure proper scheduling and resource utilization and avoid billing conflicts.