How To Use CPT Code 65220

CPT 65220 describes the procedure for the removal of a foreign body from the cornea without the use of a slit lamp. This article will cover the official description, the step-by-step procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 65220?

CPT 65220 is used to describe the removal of a foreign body from the cornea without the aid of a slit lamp. This code is used when a healthcare provider removes an object that has entered the cornea, the front portion of the eye responsible for focusing incoming light. The procedure involves washing out the eye with sterile solution, locating the foreign body, and using a needle and swab to remove it. If any part of the foreign body remains, it is removed using a moistened cotton tipped applicator. The eye is then patched to protect it during the healing process.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 65220 is: ‘Removal of foreign body, external eye; corneal, without slit lamp.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring they are appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider washes out the eye with sterile solution to ensure cleanliness.
3. Using a specialized instrument, the provider inspects the surfaces of the eye and locates the foreign body in the cornea.
4. A needle and swab are used to carefully scoop off the foreign body from the cornea.
5. If any part of the foreign body remains, the provider uses a moistened cotton tipped applicator to remove it.
6. After the foreign body is completely removed, the provider patches the eye to protect it during the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 65220 is used when a foreign body is present in the cornea and requires removal. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider who is trained and qualified to perform this specific procedure. The use of a slit lamp, a special lighting device designed for viewing the eye, is not involved in this procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 65220

CPT code 65220 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the removal of a foreign body from the cornea without the use of a slit lamp. It is important to note that this code should not be used for the removal of foreign bodies from other parts of the eye or for procedures involving the use of a slit lamp.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 65220, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the presence of a foreign body in the cornea
• A detailed description of the procedure performed, including the use of sterile solution, the instruments used, and any additional techniques employed
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 65220, ensure that the procedure was performed by a qualified healthcare provider and that a slit lamp was not used. It is important to note that CPT code 65220 should not be reported with other codes for the removal of foreign bodies from different parts of the eye. Modifier 51, indicating multiple procedures, should not be used in this case. If additional services were provided during the procedure, modifier 22, indicating increased procedural services, may be appended with a brief explanation in the operative note.

8. Historical information

CPT 65220 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider removes a small metal shard from a patient’s cornea without the use of a slit lamp.
2. A foreign body, such as a wood chip, is successfully removed from a patient’s cornea by a healthcare provider using a needle and swab.
3. A healthcare provider removes a glass fragment from a patient’s cornea without the use of a slit lamp.
4. A small piece of plastic is removed from a patient’s cornea by a healthcare provider using a moistened cotton tipped applicator.
5. A healthcare provider removes a metal splinter from a patient’s cornea without the use of a slit lamp.
6. A foreign body, such as a grain of sand, is successfully removed from a patient’s cornea by a healthcare provider using a needle and swab.
7. A healthcare provider removes a small piece of debris from a patient’s cornea without the use of a slit lamp.
8. A healthcare provider removes a foreign body, such as a bug wing, from a patient’s cornea using a moistened cotton tipped applicator.
9. A small particle of dirt is removed from a patient’s cornea by a healthcare provider without the use of a slit lamp.
10. A healthcare provider successfully removes a metal fragment from a patient’s cornea using a needle and swab.