How To Use CPT Code 65757

CPT 65757 describes the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to transplantation. 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 65757?

CPT 65757 can be used to describe the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft before corneal transplantation. This code is used when the provider uses surgical instruments to prepare the corneal endothelial graft during the same encounter as the transplantation procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 65757 is: ‘Backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to transplantation (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ This code should be used in conjunction with the primary procedure code for corneal transplantation.

3. Procedure

1. After the patient is prepped and anesthetized, the provider prepares the endothelial graft in the operating room.
2. The provider mounts the donor cornea on the artificial anterior chamber (AAC) and measures the pressure.
3. Under the microscope, the provider removes the corneal epithelium and makes a reference mark on the donor cornea.
4. The provider measures the central corneal thickness using pachymetry after hydrating the material and setting the microkeratome to an appropriate depth.
5. The provider inspects the microkeratome, cuts the corneal cap from the donor material, and retrieves the cap from the microkeratome.
6. Using the previously placed marker, the provider realigns the corneal cap on the donor bed.
7. The provider cleans the membrane and endothelium from the recipient’s cornea, irrigates the site, closes the incision, applies antibiotics, and applies a patch.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 65757 is used when the provider performs the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to transplantation. This procedure is typically performed during the same encounter as the corneal transplantation. The provider uses surgical instruments to prepare the corneal endothelial graft, which is then transplanted into the recipient’s cornea.

5. When to use CPT code 65757

CPT code 65757 should be used when the provider performs the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to corneal transplantation. This code should be reported in addition to the primary procedure code for the transplantation. It is important to note that payers will not reimburse for CPT 65757 if it is reported without an appropriate primary code for corneal transplantation.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 65757, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for corneal transplantation and the need for backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft
• Description of the backbench preparation procedure performed
• Date and time of the procedure
• Details of the artificial anterior chamber (AAC) used
• Measurement of central corneal thickness using pachymetry
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 65757, ensure that the procedure is performed in conjunction with a primary procedure code for corneal transplantation. This code should not be reported without an appropriate primary code. It is important to follow payer-specific guidelines and documentation requirements for accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 65757 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2009. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performing the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to penetrating keratoplasty.
2. A surgeon preparing the corneal endothelial graft before performing lamellar keratoplasty.
3. A provider performing the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to penetrating keratoplasty with a graft from a cadaver donor.
4. A surgeon preparing the corneal endothelial graft before performing penetrating keratoplasty with living donor tissue.
5. A provider performing the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to penetrating keratoplasty with corneal endothelial transplant.
6. A surgeon preparing the corneal endothelial graft before performing penetrating keratoplasty for a patient with corneal disease.
7. A provider performing the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to lamellar keratoplasty for a patient with corneal dystrophy.
8. A surgeon preparing the corneal endothelial graft before performing penetrating keratoplasty with a graft from a living related donor.
9. A provider performing the backbench preparation of corneal endothelial allograft prior to penetrating keratoplasty for a patient with corneal scarring.
10. A surgeon preparing the corneal endothelial graft before performing lamellar keratoplasty for a patient with corneal degeneration.