Axial Skeleton, Except Skull and Facial Bones (BR) ICD-10-PCS
The BR body system covers Imaging procedures on axial skeleton, except skull and facial bones, with 324 ICD-10-PCS codes across 5 root operations, 314 of them billable in fiscal year 2026. Each root operation defines a distinct procedural objective, and the info icons show the official definition with a preview of the codes inside.
Root Operations in This Body System 5 operations · 324 codes
| Chars 1–3 | Root Operation | Codes | Billable |
|---|---|---|---|
| BR0 | Plain RadiographyPlanar display of an image developed from the capture of external ionizing radiation on photographic or photoconductive plate | 84 | 82 |
| BR1 | FluoroscopySingle plane or bi-plane real time display of an image developed from the capture of external ionizing radiation on fluorescent screen. The image may also be stored by either digital or analog means | 130 | 128 |
| BR2 | Computerized Tomography (CT Scan)Computer-reformatted digital display of multiplanar images developed from the capture of multiple exposures of external ionizing radiation | 50 | 48 |
| BR3 | Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)Computer reformatted digital display of multiplanar images developed from the capture of radio frequency signals emitted by nuclei in a body site excited within a magnetic field | 50 | 48 |
| BR4 | UltrasonographyReal time display of images of anatomy or flow information developed from the capture of reflected and attenuated high frequency sound waves | 10 | 8 |
The info icon shows the official root operation definition and previews the codes in that range.
About the BR Body System
The ICD-10-PCS root operation BR refers to imaging procedures specifically targeting the Axial Skeleton, Except Skull and Facial Bones. This operation involves creating detailed images of bones in the neck, chest, and back regions to aid diagnosis and treatment planning.
Within the Imaging classification, several techniques illustrate the use of root operation BR. These include Plain Radiography (code BR0), which captures static images via external ionizing radiation on photographic plates, and Fluoroscopy (BR1), offering real-time X-ray visualization using a fluorescent screen. Advanced modalities are also represented like Computerized Tomography (CT Scan) (BR2), generating multiplanar digital images from multiple X-ray exposures, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (BR3), which uses radio frequency signals in a magnetic field for detailed multiplanar views. Additionally, Ultrasonography (BR4) provides real-time images through reflected high-frequency sound waves. These diverse approaches within the axial skeleton imaging codes enable precise evaluation of bone and surrounding structures outside the skull and face.
Questions About This Page
How many codes are in the BR body system?
The BR body system contains 324 ICD-10-PCS codes in FY 2026, organized into 5 root operations. 314 of them are billable on inpatient claims.
What is a root operation?
The root operation is the third character of every ICD-10-PCS code and names the objective of the procedure. Drainage takes fluid out, Excision cuts out a portion of a body part, and Resection removes all of one. Picking the right root operation is the central skill of PCS coding, so each one above carries its official CMS definition.
Related References
Source: CMS FY 2026 ICD-10-PCS order file and code tables, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
