CPT Code 65435 | Description & Clinical Information

CPT 65435 describes the removal of the corneal epithelium through abrasion or curettage, with or without chemocauterization, primarily used to eliminate a damaged or injured epithelial layer from the cornea.

Official Description

The CPT book defines CPT code 65435 as: “Removal of corneal epithelium; with or without chemocauterization (abrasion, curettage)”.

Billing Guidelines

Report CPT 65435 separately and do not include it in conjunction with CPT 0402T.

Clinical Information

The procedure described by CPT code 65435 is a type of surgery that involves scraping the corneal epithelium from its surrounding structures using a curette. This procedure is typically performed for the treatment of corneal diseases or injuries such as corneal dystrophy or corneal ulcer.

Before performing the procedure, the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized to minimize any discomfort or pain. The provider then carefully separates the corneal epithelium from its surrounding structures before proceeding with the scraping procedure.

To remove the corneal epithelium, the provider uses a curette and scrapes the epithelial layer from the anterior limiting lamina of the cornea. This process requires precision and patience as the provider must be careful not to damage other parts of the eye during the procedure.

In some cases, the provider may also apply a chemical substance by means of a cautery to destroy any underlying viable tissue. This is typically done to ensure that all affected tissue is removed during the procedure.

After the procedure is complete, the patient may experience mild discomfort and need to wear a protective patch over their eye for a short period of time. In most cases, patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days of the procedure.

It is important to note that while the procedure described by CPT code 65435 is safe and effective for the treatment of corneal diseases and injuries, it is not suitable for everyone. Patients who have a history of eye problems or who are taking certain medications may not be good candidates for this procedure.

Overall, the procedure described by CPT code 65435 is a valuable tool for the treatment of corneal diseases and injuries. Patients who are considering this procedure should discuss their options with their healthcare provider and evaluate the potential risks and benefits before undergoing the surgery.

Return to all the CPT codes for removal or destruction procedures on the cornea.