How To Use CPT Code 66830

CPT 66830 describes the removal of a secondary membranous cataract, which involves excising the hazy or opacified posterior lens capsule and/or anterior hyaloid. 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 66830?

CPT 66830 is used to describe the surgical procedure of removing a secondary membranous cataract. This involves excising the hazy or opacified posterior lens capsule and/or anterior hyaloid in a patient who has previously undergone cataract surgery. The purpose of this procedure is to improve vision and clarity by removing the obstructing membrane.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 66830 is: ‘Removal of secondary membranous cataract (opacified posterior lens capsule and/or anterior hyaloid) with corneo-scleral section, with or without iridectomy (iridocapsulotomy, iridocapsulectomy).’ This procedure involves making an incision at the border of the sclera and cornea, fragmenting and removing the posterior lens capsule, and potentially removing a portion of the iris if necessary.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized, typically with local anesthesia.
2. The provider makes an incision at the border of the sclera and cornea.
3. A needle is inserted to fragment the posterior lens capsule and remove it.
4. If necessary, the provider may also remove a portion of the iris.
5. The incision is closed with sutures, intraocular pressure is restored, a topical antibiotic is administered, and an eye pressure patch is applied.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 66830 is performed on patients who have a secondary membranous cataract, which is characterized by a cloudy and thickened lens capsule. This condition typically occurs in individuals who have previously undergone cataract surgery. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and may involve the removal of the posterior lens capsule and/or anterior hyaloid.

5. When to use CPT code 66830

CPT code 66830 should be used when a patient requires the removal of a secondary membranous cataract. This procedure is performed to improve vision and clarity by removing the obstructing membrane. It is important to note that this code should not be used for primary cataract removal or other types of cataract procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 66830, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a secondary membranous cataract
• Description of the procedure performed, including the removal of the posterior lens capsule and/or anterior hyaloid
• Date of the procedure
• Details of any additional procedures performed, such as iridectomy
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 66830, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a secondary membranous cataract removal. It is important to accurately document the procedure and any additional services provided. CPT code 66830 should not be reported with other codes for primary cataract removal or other unrelated procedures.

8. Historical information

CPT 66830 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 who previously underwent cataract surgery develops a secondary membranous cataract. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the obstructing membrane and improve the patient’s vision.
2. A 65-year-old individual presents with blurry vision due to a secondary membranous cataract. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the hazy posterior lens capsule and restore visual clarity.
3. A patient who had cataract surgery several years ago experiences a decrease in vision due to a secondary membranous cataract. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the opacified lens capsule and improve the patient’s visual acuity.
4. An elderly patient presents with difficulty seeing due to a secondary membranous cataract. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the obstructing membrane and enhance the patient’s visual function.
5. A 70-year-old individual develops a secondary membranous cataract following cataract surgery. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the cloudy posterior lens capsule and improve the patient’s visual clarity.
6. A patient who previously underwent cataract surgery experiences blurred vision due to a secondary membranous cataract. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the obstructing membrane and restore the patient’s visual acuity.
7. An individual presents with decreased vision caused by a secondary membranous cataract. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the opacified posterior lens capsule and improve the patient’s visual function.
8. A patient who had cataract surgery several years ago develops a secondary membranous cataract. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the obstructing membrane and enhance the patient’s visual acuity.
9. An elderly individual presents with blurry vision due to a secondary membranous cataract. The provider performs CPT 66830 to remove the hazy posterior lens capsule and improve the patient’s visual clarity.