How To Use CPT Code 66740

CPT 66740 describes a procedure known as ciliary body destruction or cyclodialysis. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 66740, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 66740?

CPT 66740 is a code used to describe a specific procedure called ciliary body destruction or cyclodialysis. This procedure involves separating part of the ciliary body, which is responsible for producing fluid in the eye, from the scleral spur. By doing so, the provider aims to decrease fluid production and subsequently lower intraocular pressure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 66740 is: ‘Ciliary body destruction; cyclodialysis.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the provider begins by placing an ocular speculum in the patient’s eye to keep it open.
2. An incision is made in the conjunctiva and sclera at the thin part of the ciliary body.
3. A spatula is inserted through the incision into the anterior chamber of the eye.
4. The provider uses a gonioscope, along with a slit lamp or operating microscope, to visualize the anterior chamber.
5. Using a spatula, the ciliary body is separated from its attachment at the scleral spur.
6. This separation reduces the production of aqueous fluid and improves uveoscleral outflow, which helps drain fluid from the anterior chamber.
7. The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile solution may be injected into the eye to restore pressure.
8. A pressure patch with antibiotic ointment may also be applied.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 66740 is performed for cases of glaucoma where reducing aqueous fluid and lowering intraocular pressure is necessary. It is important to note that this procedure is only performed by qualified providers and is not suitable for all patients with glaucoma. The decision to perform ciliary body destruction or cyclodialysis is based on the patient’s specific condition and the provider’s clinical judgment.

5. When to use CPT code 66740

CPT code 66740 should be used when the provider performs ciliary body destruction or cyclodialysis to reduce aqueous fluid production and lower intraocular pressure. It is important to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and appropriate for the patient’s condition. This code should not be used for other procedures or treatments unrelated to ciliary body destruction or cyclodialysis.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 66740, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the medical necessity of ciliary body destruction or cyclodialysis
• Details of the procedure, including the specific steps taken and any instruments used
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or adverse events that occurred during or after the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 66740, it is important to ensure that the procedure was performed by a qualified provider and that it meets the necessary criteria for reimbursement. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer. CPT code 66740 should not be reported with other codes unless they are directly related to the procedure or treatment being performed.

8. Historical information

CPT code 66740 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 glaucoma undergoes ciliary body destruction to reduce intraocular pressure.
2. A provider performs cyclodialysis on a patient with refractory glaucoma to improve uveoscleral outflow.
3. Ciliary body destruction is performed as part of the treatment plan for a patient with secondary glaucoma.
4. A provider performs cyclodialysis on a patient with angle-closure glaucoma to alleviate intraocular pressure.
5. Ciliary body destruction is performed on a patient with neovascular glaucoma to manage fluid production in the eye.
6. A provider performs cyclodialysis on a patient with pigmentary glaucoma to improve drainage of fluid from the anterior chamber.
7. Ciliary body destruction is performed on a patient with congenital glaucoma to reduce intraocular pressure.
8. A provider performs cyclodialysis on a patient with normal-tension glaucoma to lower intraocular pressure.
9. Ciliary body destruction is performed on a patient with juvenile glaucoma to manage fluid production in the eye.
10. A provider performs cyclodialysis on a patient with chronic open-angle glaucoma to improve uveoscleral outflow.