CPT® Code 76979

Add-On Code

Ultrasound, targeted dynamic microbubble sonographic contrast characterization (non-cardiac); each additional lesion with separate injection (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Ultrasound, targeted dynamic microbubble sonographic contrast characterization (non-cardiac) is a specialized imaging technique that utilizes a contrast agent composed of microbubbles. These microbubbles are tiny spheres or bubbles filled with gas, encased in a stable shell made of lipids, proteins, or polymers. They are designed to enhance the quality of ultrasound (US) imaging by improving the visualization of specific organs or tissues. The microbubbles are tagged with ligands that have a high affinity for particular receptors, allowing them to bind selectively to target areas within the body. When the contrast agent is injected intravenously, the ultrasound probe is positioned over the area of interest. If the microbubbles successfully bind to their target receptors, they will accumulate in that region, leading to a change in how ultrasound waves are reflected through the tissue. This results in increased echogenicity, which creates a distinctive acoustic signature that can be detected during the ultrasound examination. This technique is particularly useful for identifying tumors and nodules in organs such as the liver, pancreas, kidneys, and ovaries. Additionally, it can be employed to evaluate inflammatory lesions and tumors in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as to assess abdominal parenchyma for hematomas and vascular injuries following trauma. The CPT® code 76978 is used to report the ultrasound characterization of an initial non-cardiac lesion, while CPT® code 76979 is designated for each additional lesion that requires a separate injection of the contrast agent.