How To Use CPT Code 66840

CPT 66840 describes the removal of lens material through aspiration technique, which may be done in one or more stages. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 66840?

CPT 66840 involves the removal of lens material using an aspiration technique. This procedure is typically performed in one or more stages to ensure the complete removal of the lens material from the vitreous cavity. It is commonly done during artificial lens implantation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 66840 is the “Removal of lens material; aspiration technique, 1 or more stages.” This code specifically refers to the use of an aspiration technique to remove floating lens material left in the vitreous cavity during artificial lens implantation.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision at the border of the sclera and cornea.
2. They then insert a probe connected to an aspiration machine into the vitreous cavity.
3. Using continuous aspiration, the provider removes small pieces of lens material and breaks down harder pieces into smaller ones for easier removal.
4. This process may require one or more stages to ensure the complete removal of the lens material.
5. After the removal, the provider closes the incision with sutures, restores the intraocular pressure, administers a topical antibiotic to the eye, and applies an eye pressure patch.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 66840 is performed when there is floating lens material left in the vitreous cavity during artificial lens implantation. It is typically done in cases where the lens material needs to be removed to ensure proper vision and prevent complications. This procedure is commonly performed on pediatric patients.

5. When to use CPT code 66840

CPT code 66840 should be used when the provider performs the removal of lens material using an aspiration technique as the sole method. If any other technique is employed in addition to aspiration, a different code should be selected. It is important to accurately document the specific technique used during the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 66840, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for lens material removal
• Details of the aspiration technique used
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional stages performed
• Closure method used
• Administration of topical antibiotic and application of an eye pressure patch

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 66840, ensure that the procedure involves the removal of lens material through aspiration technique. It is important to accurately document the specific technique used during the procedure. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 66840 with other codes. However, it is important to follow any payer-specific guidelines and modifiers if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 66840 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code description was changed on January 1, 2009 to specify the use of an aspiration technique for lens material removal.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the removal of lens material using an aspiration technique in one stage during artificial lens implantation for a patient with cataracts.
2. During a pediatric procedure, a surgeon removes lens material through aspiration technique in multiple stages to ensure complete removal and prevent complications.
3. A patient undergoes lens material removal using an aspiration technique during artificial lens implantation, with the procedure performed by an ophthalmologist.
4. A provider performs the removal of lens material through aspiration technique in one stage for a patient with a history of lens dislocation.
5. During a routine eye surgery, a surgeon utilizes an aspiration technique to remove lens material in multiple stages, ensuring a successful outcome for the patient.
6. A provider performs the removal of lens material using an aspiration technique in one stage during a vitrectomy procedure for a patient with complex eye conditions.
7. During a lens replacement surgery, a surgeon removes lens material through aspiration technique in multiple stages, ensuring optimal visual outcomes for the patient.
8. A pediatric patient undergoes lens material removal using an aspiration technique in one stage, with the procedure performed by a specialized pediatric ophthalmologist.
9. A provider performs the removal of lens material through aspiration technique in multiple stages for a patient with a history of lens complications, ensuring complete removal and preventing further issues.
10. During a complex eye surgery, a surgeon utilizes an aspiration technique to remove lens material in one stage, achieving successful visual restoration for the patient.