How To Use CPT Code 65436

CPT 65436 describes the removal of corneal epithelium using a chelating agent, such as EDTA. 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 65436?

CPT 65436 is used to describe the procedure of removing the corneal epithelium by applying a chelating agent, such as EDTA. This procedure is performed to remove an injured or damaged epithelial layer from the cornea.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 65436 is the “Removal of corneal epithelium; with application of chelating agent (eg, EDTA).” This code specifically refers to the removal of the corneal epithelium using a chelating agent.

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider separates the corneal epithelium from its surrounding structure.
2. Using a surgical knife or sponge, the provider carefully removes the epithelial layer from the anterior limiting lamina of the cornea.
3. After the removal of the epithelium, a chelating agent, such as EDTA, is applied to eliminate any remaining noncellular depositions from the Bowman’s layer.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 65436 is performed when there is a need to remove the corneal epithelium using a chelating agent. This procedure is typically done to address an injured or damaged epithelial layer of the cornea. It is important to note that only a qualified healthcare provider should perform this procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 65436

CPT code 65436 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the removal of corneal epithelium using a chelating agent, such as EDTA. This code accurately describes the specific procedure and should be used when reporting it.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 65436, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for corneal epithelium removal
• Specific chelating agent used, such as EDTA
• Date and details of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 65436, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider and that the chelating agent, such as EDTA, is used. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code accurately. Additionally, consider any other codes that may need to be reported in conjunction with CPT 65436, and use the appropriate modifiers if necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT 65436 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 healthcare provider performs the removal of corneal epithelium using EDTA to address an injured epithelial layer.
2. During the procedure, the corneal epithelium is carefully removed with a surgical knife, and a chelating agent is applied to remove any remaining noncellular depositions.
3. A patient undergoes corneal epithelium removal using a chelating agent to treat a damaged epithelial layer.
4. The healthcare provider performs the procedure to remove the corneal epithelium and applies EDTA to eliminate any noncellular depositions.
5. Using a sponge, the healthcare provider removes the corneal epithelium and applies a chelating agent to ensure thorough removal of noncellular depositions.
6. A qualified healthcare provider performs the removal of corneal epithelium using a chelating agent to address an injured or damaged epithelial layer.
7. During the procedure, the healthcare provider carefully removes the corneal epithelium and applies EDTA to remove any remaining noncellular depositions.
8. A patient undergoes corneal epithelium removal using a chelating agent to treat a specific condition.
9. The healthcare provider performs the procedure to remove the corneal epithelium and applies a chelating agent to ensure complete removal of noncellular depositions.
10. Using a surgical knife, the healthcare provider removes the corneal epithelium and applies EDTA to eliminate any noncellular depositions.