CT Colonography (Virtual) vs MRI Spine (Lumbar)
Medicare Cost Comparison 2025
Quick Answer
CT Colonography (Virtual): $800 total · Medicare pays $640 · Patient pays $160
MRI Spine (Lumbar): $1,400 total · Medicare pays $1,120 · Patient pays $280
Cost Comparison
| Metric | CT Colonography (Virtual) | MRI Spine (Lumbar) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Average Cost | $800 | $1,400 |
| Medicare Pays | $640 | $1,120 |
| Patient Pays | $160 | $280 |
| Category | imaging | imaging |
FAQ
What is the cost difference between CT Colonography (Virtual) and MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
MRI Spine (Lumbar) costs $1,400 on average, while CT Colonography (Virtual) costs $800 — a difference of $600.
How much does Medicare pay for CT Colonography (Virtual) vs MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
Medicare typically pays $640 for CT Colonography (Virtual) (patient owes $160). For MRI Spine (Lumbar), Medicare pays $1,120 (patient owes $280).
What is CT Colonography (Virtual)?
CT-based virtual colonoscopy for colon screening.
What is MRI Spine (Lumbar)?
Magnetic resonance imaging of the lower spine.