Radiology Question for the Week of April 10, 2023

Question:

How many times can the contrast-enhanced ultrasound codes (76978 –76979) be reported at the same encounter?

Answer:

Only one unit of 76978 may be assigned per encounter. CPT® lists no restrictions about how many times code +76979 may be assigned at an encounter. What CPT does state is that in order to assign this code (+76979), a separate injection of the imaging agent must be performed. If only a single injection is performed but two separate lesions were studied and commented upon, only a single unit of the code would be submitted. Physicians are strongly encouraged to clearly define each separate injection performed to assist with correct code assignment. Physicians should not use vague terms such as several, multiple, or numerous in their dictated reports.

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