How To Use CPT Code 65435

CPT 65435 describes the procedure for the removal of the corneal epithelium, with or without chemocauterization. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 65435?

CPT 65435 is used to describe the removal of the corneal epithelium, which is the squamous epithelial tissue that covers the front part of the eye. This procedure may involve the use of abrasion or curettage, and it may or may not include chemocauterization. The purpose of this procedure is to remove an injured or damaged epithelial layer from the cornea.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 65435 is: ‘Removal of corneal epithelium; with or without chemocauterization (abrasion, curettage).’ It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with code 0402T.

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. The provider then separates the corneal epithelium from the surrounding structures.
3. Using a curette, the provider scrapes the epithelial layer from the anterior limiting lamina of the cornea.
4. If necessary, the provider may apply a chemical substance using a cautery to destroy any underlying viable tissue.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 65435 is performed when there is a need to remove the corneal epithelium due to injury or damage. The procedure is typically carried out by a healthcare provider who is trained in ophthalmology or a related field. It is important to note that the corneal epithelium removal may or may not involve chemocauterization, depending on the specific circumstances of the patient’s condition.

5. When to use CPT code 65435

CPT code 65435 should be used when the healthcare provider performs the removal of the corneal epithelium, with or without chemocauterization. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 65435, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis or reason for the corneal epithelium removal
• Details of the procedure, including whether chemocauterization was performed
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 65435, it is important to ensure that the procedure was performed by a qualified healthcare provider and that the documentation supports the use of this code. It should not be reported in conjunction with code 0402T. Additionally, it is important to follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 65435 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to this code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a corneal abrasion, and the healthcare provider performs the removal of the corneal epithelium using curettage.
2. A patient has a corneal ulcer, and the healthcare provider performs the removal of the corneal epithelium with chemocauterization.
3. A patient has a corneal foreign body, and the healthcare provider performs the removal of the corneal epithelium without chemocauterization.
4. A patient has a corneal lesion, and the healthcare provider performs the removal of the corneal epithelium with the application of a chelating agent.
5. A patient has a corneal injury, and the healthcare provider performs the removal of the corneal epithelium with chemocauterization.