How To Use CPT Code 67346

CPT 67346 describes a specific procedure that involves the biopsy of the extraocular muscle. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 67346, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 67346?

CPT 67346 is a code that represents the biopsy of the extraocular muscle. This procedure involves the removal of a small portion of tissue from the extraocular muscle for further investigation in the laboratory. It is important to note that this code should not be used for the repair of wounds or other structures related to the extraocular muscle.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 67346 is: ‘Biopsy of extraocular muscle.’ This code specifically refers to the procedure of taking a small portion of tissue from the extraocular muscle for pathological examination. It is important to use this code accurately and not confuse it with other codes that may involve repair or other procedures related to the extraocular muscle.

3. Procedure

1. During the biopsy of the extraocular muscle, the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized to ensure their comfort and safety.
2. The provider makes an incision in the conjunctiva, either in the fornix or the limbal area of the eye, to access the extraocular muscle.
3. A small portion of the extraocular muscle is carefully removed by the provider.
4. The removed tissue is then sent to the laboratory for further investigation and pathological examination.
5. Finally, the provider closes the incision with sutures to ensure proper healing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 67346 is used when there is a need to perform a biopsy of the extraocular muscle. This procedure is typically performed when there is suspicion of pathology or to investigate existing pathology in the extraocular muscle. It is important to note that this code should not be used for other procedures or repairs related to the extraocular muscle.

5. When to use CPT code 67346

CPT code 67346 should be used when a biopsy of the extraocular muscle is performed. It is important to accurately document the need for the biopsy and ensure that the procedure aligns with the official description of the code. This code should not be used for other procedures or repairs related to the extraocular muscle.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 67346, the following documentation is required:

• Clear indication of the need for the biopsy of the extraocular muscle
• Details of the procedure, including the specific extraocular muscle involved
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Pathological examination results, if available
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 67346, it is important to ensure that the procedure accurately aligns with the official description. This code should not be reported for other procedures or repairs related to the extraocular muscle. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines or requirements set by the payer. Additionally, it is essential to accurately document the procedure and provide any necessary supporting documentation.

8. Historical information

CPT code 67346 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. There have been no updates or changes to this code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a biopsy of the extraocular muscle to investigate a suspected pathology.
2. A provider performs a biopsy of the extraocular muscle to further examine an existing pathology.
3. During a surgical procedure, a small portion of the extraocular muscle is removed for pathological examination.
4. A patient with strabismus undergoes a biopsy of the extraocular muscle to assess any underlying issues.
5. A provider performs a biopsy of the extraocular muscle to determine the cause of a patient’s eye misalignment.
6. During a routine eye examination, a biopsy of the extraocular muscle is performed to investigate any potential abnormalities.
7. A patient with a history of eye muscle problems undergoes a biopsy of the extraocular muscle for diagnostic purposes.
8. A provider performs a biopsy of the extraocular muscle to rule out any underlying conditions.
9. During a surgical procedure, a biopsy of the extraocular muscle is performed to ensure the absence of any pathology.
10. A patient with persistent eye discomfort undergoes a biopsy of the extraocular muscle to identify the cause of their symptoms.