How To Use CPT Code 66600

CPT 66600 describes the excision of a lesion on the iris of the eye by removing part of the iris, cornea, and/or sclera. 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 66600?

CPT 66600 can be used to describe the excision of a lesion on the iris of the eye. During this procedure, a qualified healthcare provider removes a portion of the iris, cornea, and/or sclera to eliminate the damaged or diseased tissue. This code is specifically used for the removal of a lesion on the iris.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 66600 is: ‘Iridectomy, with corneoscleral or corneal section; for removal of lesion.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The healthcare provider makes a small incision in the cornea.
3. A special magnification lens is placed on the patient’s eye.
4. The provider directs a laser beam through the lens to the iris.
5. The laser beam excises a part of the iris and destroys the lesion on it.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 66600 is used when a patient has a lesion on their iris that requires excision. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider who is trained in performing iridectomies. The patient must meet the criteria for the procedure, and the healthcare provider must determine that the excision is necessary for the patient’s health and well-being.

5. When to use CPT code 66600

CPT code 66600 should be used when a qualified healthcare provider performs an iridectomy to remove a lesion on the iris. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 66600, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the iridectomy
• Specific details of the procedure, including the incision made and the use of a magnification lens
• Description of the lesion being removed
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 66600, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide the necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, be aware of any additional codes that may need to be reported if other procedures are performed in conjunction with the iridectomy.

8. Historical information

CPT 66600 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A qualified healthcare provider performs an iridectomy to remove a lesion on the iris of a patient’s eye.
2. During the procedure, the healthcare provider makes a small incision in the cornea and uses a magnification lens to direct a laser beam to the iris, excising the lesion.
3. The patient’s diagnosis and the need for the iridectomy are documented, along with the specific details of the procedure.
4. The date of the procedure is recorded, and the healthcare provider signs the documentation.
5. Provide five more examples of cases in which CPT code 66600 should be billed. Only explain the examples and make them all original.