How To Use CPT Code 76978

CPT 76978 describes the use of targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to assess lesions suspicious for malignancy or to assess blood flow in organs such as the liver and kidneys. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 76978?

CPT 76978 can be used to describe the use of targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination. This procedure is performed to assess lesions that are suspected to be malignant or to evaluate the blood flow in organs like the liver and kidneys. It involves the injection of contrast material consisting of lipid- or protein-coated microspheres filled with a gas core, which enables sensitive ultrasound detection.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 76978 is: ‘Ultrasound, targeted dynamic microbubble sonographic contrast characterization (non-cardiac); initial lesion.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider applies gel over the area to be examined and takes preliminary ultrasound images for comparison.
2. The patient is then injected intravenously with lipid- or protein-coated microspheres filled with a gas core, which act as contrast material.
3. After allowing the contrast material to circulate for a few minutes, the provider records the average signal intensity of attached and circulating microbubbles.
4. A high-powered ultrasound pulse is administered to destroy the microbubbles attached to tissues.
5. After allowing the remaining microbubbles to circulate for a few seconds, the provider records the signal intensity of just the circulating microbubbles.
6. The procedure is completed, and the microbubbles dissipate shortly after.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 76978 is used when there is a need to assess lesions that are suspicious for malignancy or to evaluate blood flow in organs like the liver and kidneys. The procedure requires the use of targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination, which involves the injection of contrast material consisting of lipid- or protein-coated microspheres filled with a gas core. This procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 76978

CPT code 76978 should be used when there is a need to perform targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to assess lesions suspected to be malignant or to evaluate blood flow in organs like the liver and kidneys. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description of the code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 76978, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical history and reason for the procedure
• Details of the targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination
• Date and time of the procedure
• Specific findings and observations during the examination
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 76978, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description of the code. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers, if applicable. Additionally, consider any specific billing requirements or guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company.

8. Historical information

CPT 76978 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2019. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to assess a suspicious liver lesion.
2. A healthcare professional performs targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to evaluate blood flow in a patient’s kidneys.
3. A provider uses targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to assess a suspicious lesion in the pancreas.
4. A patient undergoes targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to evaluate blood flow in the spleen.
5. A healthcare professional performs targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to assess a suspicious lesion in the gallbladder.
6. A provider uses targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to evaluate blood flow in a patient’s adrenal glands.
7. A patient undergoes targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to assess a suspicious lesion in the thyroid.
8. A healthcare professional performs targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to evaluate blood flow in a patient’s pelvic organs.
9. A provider uses targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to assess a suspicious lesion in the breast.
10. A patient undergoes targeted microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination to evaluate blood flow in the testicles.