C9791 HCPCS code: Magnetic resonance imaging with inhaled hyperpolarized xenon-129 contrast agent, chest, including preparation and administration of agent
C9791 is the HCPCS Level II code for magnetic resonance imaging with inhaled hyperpolarized xenon-129 contrast agent, chest, including preparation and administration of agent. Its Medicare coverage code is D (Special coverage instructions apply): Medicare covers it when its national or local coverage criteria are met. The NCCI unit limit is 1 per day on outpatient hospital claims.
Code details
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Section | C codes — Outpatient PPS (hospital outpatient temporary codes) |
| Coverage code | D — Special coverage instructions apply |
| Pricing indicator | 53 |
| BETOS category | I2D |
| Added | 2023-10-01 |
| Last action effective | 2023-10-01 |
NCCI unit limits (MUE)
| Claim type | Max units per day | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| outpatient hospital claims | 1 | Code Descriptor / CPT Instruction |
| practitioner claims | 1 | Code Descriptor / CPT Instruction |
What changed for C9791
- 2023-10-01: C9791 added to HCPCS Level II
- Next scheduled CMS quarterly update (HCPCS and DMEPOS fee schedule): 2027-01-01
Frequently asked questions
What is HCPCS code C9791?
C9791 is the HCPCS Level II code for magnetic resonance imaging with inhaled hyperpolarized xenon-129 contrast agent, chest, including preparation and administration of agent. Short descriptor: "Mri hyperpolarized xenon129".
Does Medicare cover C9791?
Coverage code D — Special coverage instructions apply. Medicare covers it when its national or local coverage criteria are met.
How many units of C9791 can be billed per day?
1 on outpatient hospital claims; 1 on practitioner claims (NCCI medically unlikely edits).
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Next steps
- Run a reimbursement report for a device billed under C9791
- Watch C9791 for fee, coverage and descriptor changes
- Build a full Medicare revenue model for C9791
Sources: CMS HCPCS Level II release October 2025; CMS DMEPOS fee schedule; CMS NCCI MUE tables; CMS Medicare utilization (physician and DME supplier files); CMS Medicare Coverage Database articles. Fees are Medicare allowables, not commercial rates. Not billing or legal advice.