How To Use CPT Code 67880

CPT code 67880 describes a procedure known as construction of intermarginal adhesions, median tarsorrhaphy, or canthorrhaphy. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 67880?

CPT 67880 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the excision of the inner edges of the eyelids and the subsequent suturing of them together. This procedure can be performed partially or fully, in the middle or at either corner of the eyelids. The purpose of this procedure is to allow the cornea to heal in the presence of corneal disease or damage.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 67880 is: ‘Construction of intermarginal adhesions, median tarsorrhaphy, or canthorrhaphy.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision near the eyelashes, preparing the patient appropriately with anesthesia.
2. Next, the provider excises the tissue along the margins of the upper and lower eyelids.
3. Multiple sutures are then passed at the eyelid margin of the upper and lower lids in the same area, securing the eyelids together.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 67880 is performed when there is a need to create intermarginal adhesions, median tarsorrhaphy, or canthorrhaphy. These procedures are typically done to prevent irritation of the cornea and promote healing in the presence of corneal disease or damage.

5. When to use CPT code 67880

CPT code 67880 should be used when the provider performs the construction of intermarginal adhesions, median tarsorrhaphy, or canthorrhaphy. It is important to note that this code should not be used for other eyelid procedures or surgeries.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 67880, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the procedure
• Details of the procedure performed, including the specific technique used
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 67880, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. Modifier E1, E2, E3, or E4 can be used to designate the involved eyelid. These modifiers provide additional clinical information but do not directly affect payment. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 67880 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 corneal damage undergoes a procedure where the inner edges of the eyelids are excised and sutured together to promote healing.
2. A provider performs a median tarsorrhaphy on a patient with corneal disease to create intermarginal adhesions and protect the cornea.
3. An individual with a history of corneal damage undergoes canthorrhaphy to prevent further irritation and promote healing.
4. A patient with a corneal disease undergoes a procedure where the inner corners of the eyelids are sutured together to create intermarginal adhesions.
5. A provider performs a canthorrhaphy on a patient with corneal damage to protect the cornea and promote healing.
6. An individual with corneal disease undergoes a procedure where the middle edges of the eyelids are sutured together to create intermarginal adhesions.
7. A patient with corneal damage undergoes median tarsorrhaphy to protect the cornea and promote healing.
8. A provider performs a procedure where the inner edges of the eyelids are excised and sutured together to create intermarginal adhesions in a patient with corneal disease.
9. An individual with corneal damage undergoes canthorrhaphy to prevent further irritation and promote healing.
10. A patient with a history of corneal disease undergoes a procedure where the inner corners of the eyelids are sutured together to create intermarginal adhesions and protect the cornea.