How To Use CPT Code 65860

CPT 65860 describes the procedure of severing adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye using a laser technique. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 65860?

CPT 65860 can be used to describe the procedure in which a healthcare provider uses a laser to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye. This code is specifically for the laser technique used to treat adhesions in this area.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 65860 is: ‘Severing adhesions of anterior segment, laser technique (separate procedure).’ This code is used when a healthcare provider uses a laser to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The healthcare provider uses an eyelid speculum to hold the patient’s eye open.
3. A customized contact lens is placed on the patient’s eye to allow access to the anterior chamber and view the area of scar tissue.
4. The healthcare provider visualizes the adhesions and applies laser pulses to sever the adhesions from the anterior segment of the eye.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 65860 is used when a patient has adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye that require treatment. Adhesions are fibrous bands that form between tissues and organs, often as a result of injury during surgery. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider using a laser technique to sever the adhesions.

5. When to use CPT code 65860

CPT code 65860 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the procedure to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye using a laser technique. It is important to note that this code should not be reported when performed along with a related procedure in the same anatomic area or through the same incision, orifice, or surgical approach. If the procedure is performed with an unrelated procedure, modifier 59, Distinct procedural service, should be appended to the code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 65860, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the procedure
• Details of the laser technique used
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 65860, ensure that the procedure is performed using a laser technique to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye. This code should not be reported when performed along with a related procedure in the same anatomic area or through the same incision, orifice, or surgical approach. If the procedure is performed with an unrelated procedure, modifier 59 should be appended to the code.

8. Historical information

CPT 65860 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider uses a laser to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye for a patient with a history of eye surgery.
2. A patient with adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye undergoes a laser procedure to separate the scar tissue.
3. A healthcare provider performs a laser technique to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye for a patient with vision impairment.
4. A patient with recurrent adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye receives a laser treatment to address the issue.
5. A healthcare provider uses a laser to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye for a patient experiencing discomfort and limited eye movement.
6. A patient with adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye undergoes a laser procedure to improve their visual function.
7. A healthcare provider performs a laser technique to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye for a patient with a history of eye trauma.
8. A patient with chronic adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye receives a laser treatment to alleviate their symptoms.
9. A healthcare provider uses a laser to sever adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye for a patient with a history of eye infections.
10. A patient with adhesions in the anterior segment of the eye undergoes a laser procedure to restore their visual acuity.