Ophthalmology Coding: For Amiotic Procedures, Take A Look At 65778-65779

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This year, if you are using tissue glue, stick to 66999.


When it comes to ophthalmology coding, CPT brings some changes with it this year. Read on and find out.


New CPT codes for ophthalmology coders: As far as CPT 2011 is concerned, eye coders have got new codes for procedures involving amniotic membrane on the eye.


This year's just in code 65778 (Placement of amniotic membrane on the ocular surface for wound healing; self-retaining) describes a procedure in which amniotic membrane is placed on the ocular surface very similar to what you do with a contact lens. The membrane can sit on the eye for many days while the eye is healing. Code 65779 (Placement of amniotic membrane on the ocular surface for wound healing; single layer, sutured) is the same process; but then with suturing, which makes it a different process fundamentally.


You have had 65780 (Ocular surface reconstruction; amniotic membrane transplantation, multiple layers) [emphasis ...
... added] for some time, however this year's CPT makes its distinction clear – that the transplantation of the amniotic membrane involves multiple layers. If the ophthalmologist makes use of tissue glue to attach the membrane, you should instead report 66999 (Unlisted procedure, anterior segment of eye). You should use this code for intentionally gluing, and not what a child could do.


For further details on this year's CPT codes for ophthalmology coders and for other specialty-specific articles to assist your ophthalmology coding, sign up for a good medical coding resource like Coding Institute. Such a site comes stocked with every possible ophthalmology coding tool for ophthalmology coders.