How To Use CPT Code 65270

CPT 65270 describes the repair of a laceration in the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane that covers the eye. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 65270?

CPT 65270 is used to describe the repair of a laceration in the conjunctiva, which is the transparent membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the eyelids. The provider brings the edges of the wound together and performs a direct closure. If there is a nonperforating laceration of the sclera, the white of the eye, it is also closed during this procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 65270 is: ‘Repair of laceration; conjunctiva, with or without nonperforating laceration sclera, direct closure.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient.
2. Using forceps or a wetted cotton-tipped applicator, the provider restores any ragged ends of the conjunctiva back into position.
3. The provider then closes the laceration with absorbable suture.
4. Antibiotic ointment is applied, and a pressure patch is placed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 65270 is performed when there is a laceration in the conjunctiva that requires repair. The provider may also close a nonperforating laceration of the sclera if present. This procedure is typically performed when the laceration is larger than 1 cm in size and cannot heal on its own with antibiotic ointment.

5. When to use CPT code 65270

CPT code 65270 should be used when a provider performs a direct closure of a laceration in the conjunctiva. It is important to note that smaller conjunctival lacerations, less than 1 cm in size, usually do not require sutures and can heal on their own with antibiotic ointment.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 65270, the provider must document the following information:

• Details of the laceration and the need for repair
• Specific technique used for the repair, including the use of forceps or a wetted cotton-tipped applicator
• Type of suture material used for the closure
• Application of antibiotic ointment and a pressure patch

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 65270, ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria for this code. It is important to note that CPT code 65270 should not be reported with other codes for repair of lacerations on the eyeball. The provider should use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific location and type of laceration.

8. Historical information

CPT code 65270 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 patient sustains a laceration in the conjunctiva due to trauma, and the provider performs a direct closure using absorbable sutures.
2. During a surgical procedure, the provider identifies a laceration in the conjunctiva and repairs it with a direct closure.
3. A patient presents with a nonperforating laceration in the sclera and a laceration in the conjunctiva. The provider performs a direct closure of both lacerations.
4. Following an accident, a patient has a laceration in the conjunctiva that requires repair. The provider performs a direct closure using absorbable sutures.
5. A patient undergoes a surgical procedure, and the provider identifies a laceration in the conjunctiva. The provider performs a direct closure to repair the laceration.
6. During an eye examination, the provider discovers a laceration in the conjunctiva and performs a direct closure using absorbable sutures.
7. A patient presents with a nonperforating laceration in the sclera and a laceration in the conjunctiva. The provider performs a direct closure of both lacerations to ensure proper healing.
8. Following an accident, a patient has a laceration in the conjunctiva that requires repair. The provider performs a direct closure using absorbable sutures to promote healing.
9. A patient undergoes a surgical procedure, and the provider identifies a laceration in the conjunctiva. The provider performs a direct closure to repair the laceration and prevent further complications.
10. During an eye examination, the provider discovers a laceration in the conjunctiva and performs a direct closure using absorbable sutures to facilitate healing.