How To Use CPT Code 66155

CPT 66155 describes the procedure of fistulization of the sclera for glaucoma, specifically using thermocauterization with iridectomy. This article will provide an overview of CPT 66155, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of when CPT 66155 may be used.

1. What is CPT Code 66155?

CPT 66155 is a code used to describe a specific surgical procedure known as fistulization of the sclera for glaucoma. In this procedure, a qualified healthcare provider creates a fistula, which is an abnormal passageway, in the sclera of the eye. This is done to relieve intraocular pressure, which is the increased pressure inside the eye commonly associated with glaucoma. The procedure involves the use of thermocauterization, a technique that utilizes heat to destroy a portion of the iris and sclera. It is important to note that CPT 66155 specifically includes the use of iridectomy, which is the surgical excision of the iris.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 66155 is: ‘Fistulization of sclera for glaucoma; thermocauterization with iridectomy.’

3. Procedure

During the procedure described by CPT 66155, the healthcare provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient. Once the patient is ready, the provider creates a fistula in the sclera, which is the thick fibrous outer covering of the eyeball. This fistula serves as an abnormal passageway to relieve pressure within the eye. The provider then uses a thermocauterization device to apply heat and destroy a portion of the iris and sclera. This destruction of tissue helps to further alleviate intraocular pressure and manage the patient’s glaucoma.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 66155 is typically performed on patients who have been diagnosed with glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure in the eye. The procedure is intended to relieve this pressure and manage the patient’s glaucoma. It is important to note that the use of thermocauterization with iridectomy is specific to CPT 66155. Other procedures, such as trephination with iridectomy or sclerectomy with punch or scissors with iridectomy, have their own distinct codes.

5. When to use CPT code 66155

CPT code 66155 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the specific procedure of fistulization of the sclera for glaucoma using thermocauterization with iridectomy. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

When reporting CPT 66155, the healthcare provider must ensure that the documentation includes the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of glaucoma
• Details of the procedure performed, including the creation of a fistula in the sclera, thermocauterization, and iridectomy
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 66155, it is important to follow the appropriate guidelines. Ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the specific details described in the code description, including the use of thermocauterization with iridectomy. It is also important to review any additional guidelines or notes provided by the payer or coding authorities to ensure accurate billing. Additionally, be aware of any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 66155 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. Since its addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code.

9. Similar codes to CPT 66155

Five similar codes to CPT 66155 include:

• CPT 66150: Fistulization of sclera for glaucoma; trephination with iridectomy
• CPT 66160: Fistulization of sclera for glaucoma; sclerectomy with punch or scissors, with iridectomy
• CPT 66156: Fistulization of sclera for glaucoma; thermocauterization without iridectomy
• CPT 66157: Fistulization of sclera for glaucoma; trephination without iridectomy
• CPT 66158: Fistulization of sclera for glaucoma; sclerectomy with punch or scissors, without iridectomy

9. Examples

1. A qualified healthcare provider performs CPT 66155 on a patient diagnosed with glaucoma. The provider creates a fistula in the sclera using thermocauterization and performs an iridectomy to relieve intraocular pressure.
2. During a surgical procedure, a healthcare provider utilizes CPT 66155 to perform fistulization of the sclera for a patient with glaucoma. The provider uses thermocauterization and includes an iridectomy as part of the procedure.
3. In a clinical setting, a qualified healthcare provider performs CPT 66155 on a patient with glaucoma. The provider creates a fistula in the sclera using thermocauterization and performs an iridectomy to alleviate intraocular pressure.
4. A patient with glaucoma undergoes a surgical procedure in which CPT 66155 is utilized. The healthcare provider performs fistulization of the sclera using thermocauterization and includes an iridectomy as part of the procedure.
5. During a glaucoma treatment, a qualified healthcare provider performs CPT 66155 on a patient. The provider creates a fistula in the sclera using thermocauterization and performs an iridectomy to manage intraocular pressure.
6. A healthcare provider performs CPT 66155 on a patient diagnosed with glaucoma. The provider utilizes thermocauterization and includes an iridectomy as part of the procedure to relieve intraocular pressure.
7. In a surgical setting, a qualified healthcare provider performs CPT 66155 on a patient with glaucoma. The provider creates a fistula in the sclera using thermocauterization and performs an iridectomy to alleviate intraocular pressure.