How To Use HCPCS Code C9776

HCPCS code C9776 describes the intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging of major extra-hepatic bile ducts, such as the cystic duct, common bile duct, and common hepatic duct, with the intravenous administration of indocyanine green (ICG). This code is used to identify and bill for this specific procedure, which involves the use of near-infrared imaging technology and a contrast agent to visualize and assess the condition of the bile ducts during surgery.

1. What is HCPCS C9776?

HCPCS code C9776 is a specific code used in medical coding to identify and bill for the intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging of major extra-hepatic bile ducts with the administration of indocyanine green. This procedure allows surgeons to visualize and assess the condition of the bile ducts during surgery, aiding in the identification of any abnormalities or potential complications.

2. Official Description

The official description of HCPCS code C9776 is “Intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging of major extra-hepatic bile duct(s) (e.g., cystic duct, common bile duct, and common hepatic duct) with intravenous administration of indocyanine green (ICG) (list separately in addition to the code for the primary procedure).” The short description for this code is “Enteral supp not otherwise c.”

3. Procedure

1. The procedure begins with the administration of indocyanine green (ICG) intravenously.
2. Once the contrast agent has been administered, near-infrared fluorescence imaging technology is used to visualize the major extra-hepatic bile ducts, including the cystic duct, common bile duct, and common hepatic duct.
3. The surgeon uses the imaging information to assess the condition of the bile ducts and identify any abnormalities or potential complications.
4. This procedure is performed intraoperatively, meaning it takes place during a surgical procedure.

4. When to use HCPCS code C9776

HCPCS code C9776 should be used when the provider performs the intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging of major extra-hepatic bile ducts with the administration of indocyanine green. This code is specifically for the imaging of the cystic duct, common bile duct, and common hepatic duct. It is important to note that this code should be listed separately in addition to the code for the primary procedure.

5. Billing Guidelines and Documentation Requirements

When billing for HCPCS code C9776, healthcare providers need to document the performance of the intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging of the major extra-hepatic bile ducts with the administration of indocyanine green. This documentation should include details about the procedure, such as the specific ducts imaged and any abnormalities or complications identified. Providers should also ensure that the code is listed separately in addition to the code for the primary procedure.

6. Historical Information and Code Maintenance

HCPCS code C9776 was added to the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System on January 01, 1985. It has an effective date of January 01, 1996. There have been no maintenance actions taken for this code, as indicated by the action code N, which means no maintenance for this code.

7. Medicare and Insurance Coverage

HCPCS code C9776 is covered by Medicare. The pricing indicator code for this code is 57, which indicates that it is priced by other carriers. The multiple pricing indicator code is A, which means it is not applicable as HCPCS priced under one methodology. Providers should refer to the Medicare Carriers Manual Reference Section Number 2130 for more information on coverage and reimbursement for this code.

8. Examples

Here are five examples of when HCPCS code C9776 should be billed:

1. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and the surgeon performs intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging of the cystic duct using indocyanine green.
2. During a liver resection surgery, the surgeon uses near-infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green to assess the condition of the common bile duct.
3. A patient with suspected bile duct obstruction undergoes exploratory surgery, and the surgeon utilizes near-infrared fluorescence imaging to visualize the common hepatic duct.
4. During a pancreaticoduodenectomy, the surgeon performs intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging of the major extra-hepatic bile ducts to ensure their integrity.
5. A patient with a history of bile duct stones undergoes a bile duct exploration procedure, and the surgeon utilizes near-infrared fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green to identify any residual stones.