How To Use CPT Code 65600

CPT 65600 describes the procedure of multiple punctures of the anterior cornea, which is often performed to stimulate new growth of corneal cells in cases of recurrent erosion syndrome. This article will cover the description, official guidelines, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 65600?

CPT 65600 is used to describe the procedure of multiple punctures of the anterior cornea. This procedure is typically performed to stimulate the growth of new corneal cells, especially in cases of recurrent erosion syndrome. The provider uses a thin needle to create multiple punctures in the anterior cornea, at a depth of not more than 50 percent, in the area of the corneal defect. In some cases, corneal tattooing may also be performed for cosmetic purposes, to improve the appearance of the eye.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 65600 is: ‘Multiple punctures of anterior cornea (eg, for corneal erosion, tattoo).’ This code does not have any additional notes or modifiers associated with it.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. Under a slit lamp, the provider uses a thin needle to create multiple punctures in the anterior cornea.
3. The punctures are made at a depth of not more than 50 percent in the area of the corneal defect.
4. In some cases, the provider may also perform corneal tattooing for cosmetic purposes.
5. During corneal tattooing, the provider uses a small, flat needle to make oblique punctures and spread ink mixed with distilled water on the punctures.
6. After the procedure, the provider applies an antibiotic ointment on a pressure patch to protect the eye.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 65600 is typically performed in cases of recurrent erosion syndrome, which refers to the frequent breakdown of the corneal epithelial membrane due to disturbance in the corneal epithelium. The procedure is aimed at stimulating the growth of new corneal cells to improve the condition. It is important to note that this procedure should only be performed by a qualified healthcare professional with the necessary expertise and training.

5. When to use CPT code 65600

CPT code 65600 should be used when the provider performs multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to stimulate new growth of corneal cells, particularly in cases of recurrent erosion syndrome. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed within the specified guidelines and for the appropriate indications.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 65600, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis, specifically mentioning the presence of recurrent erosion syndrome
• Details of the procedure, including the number of punctures made and the depth of the punctures
• Any additional procedures performed, such as corneal tattooing
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or adverse events that occurred during or after the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 65600, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed according to the specified guidelines. The provider should use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or insurance company. Additionally, it is important to review any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 65600 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 with recurrent erosion syndrome undergoes a procedure involving multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to stimulate new growth of corneal cells.
2. A provider performs corneal tattooing during a procedure involving multiple punctures of the anterior cornea for cosmetic purposes.
3. A patient with a corneal defect undergoes a procedure involving multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to promote healing and improve the condition.
4. A provider performs multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to address recurrent erosion syndrome in a patient who has not responded to other treatment options.
5. A patient with a corneal injury undergoes a procedure involving multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to aid in the healing process.
6. A provider performs multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to stimulate new cell growth in a patient with corneal dystrophy.
7. A patient with a corneal ulcer undergoes a procedure involving multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to promote healing and prevent further complications.
8. A provider performs multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to address recurrent erosion syndrome in a patient who experiences frequent corneal erosions.
9. A patient with corneal scarring undergoes a procedure involving multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to improve vision and reduce the appearance of the scar.
10. A provider performs multiple punctures of the anterior cornea to stimulate new cell growth in a patient with corneal degeneration.