How To Use CPT Code 68340

CPT 68340 describes the repair of symblepharon, which involves the division of scar tissue or adhesions between the palpebral and bulbar conjunctivae. This procedure may also include the insertion of a conformer or contact lens to improve the patient’s vision. In this article, we will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 68340?

CPT 68340 is used to describe the repair of symblepharon, a condition where the conjunctiva of the eyelid fuses to an opposing surface, such as the tarsal and bulbar conjunctiva. During this procedure, the provider frees or excises the scar tissue or adhesions, and dissects fibrotic tissue away from healthy conjunctiva. The symblepharon is then divided, removing adhesions and scarring. The provider may choose to leave the defect open or insert a conformer or contact lens between the lid conjunctiva and the globe of the eye to aid in the healing process.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 68340 is: ‘Repair of symblepharon; division of symblepharon, with or without insertion of conformer or contact lens.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient.
2. The provider frees or excises the scar tissue or adhesions between the palpebral and bulbar conjunctivae.
3. Fibrotic tissue is dissected away from healthy conjunctiva.
4. The symblepharon is divided, removing adhesions and scarring.
5. The provider may choose to leave the defect open or insert a conformer or contact lens between the lid conjunctiva and the globe of the eye.
6. If a conformer or contact lens is inserted, it will be removed at a later date.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 68340 is performed on patients with symblepharon, a condition characterized by the fusion of the conjunctiva of the eyelid to an opposing surface. The procedure is typically done to improve the patient’s vision and relieve symptoms associated with the condition. It is important to note that the use of a conformer or contact lens is optional and may be chosen by the provider based on the specific needs of the patient.

5. When to use CPT code 68340

CPT code 68340 should be used when the provider performs the division of symblepharon, with or without the insertion of a conformer or contact lens. It is important to note that if the provider performs the insertion of a conformer or contact lens, it should not be separately reported.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 68340, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of symblepharon
• Details of the procedure performed, including the division of symblepharon and the insertion of a conformer or contact lens if applicable
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as the size of the defect or the specific technique used
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 68340, ensure that the procedure performed includes the division of symblepharon, with or without the insertion of a conformer or contact lens. It is important to note that the insertion of a conformer or contact lens should not be separately reported if performed during the same session. Additionally, be aware of any specific payer guidelines or modifiers that may be required for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 68340 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 provider performs the division of symblepharon for a patient with severe fusion of the conjunctiva of the eyelid to the bulbar conjunctiva.
2. A patient with a history of symblepharon undergoes a procedure to free the scar tissue and adhesions between the palpebral and bulbar conjunctivae.
3. A provider performs the division of symblepharon and inserts a conformer to aid in the healing process for a patient with a large defect.
4. A patient with symblepharon undergoes a procedure to remove adhesions and scarring, leaving the defect open for natural healing.
5. A provider performs the division of symblepharon and inserts a contact lens to improve the patient’s vision and prevent further adhesions.
6. A patient with symblepharon undergoes a procedure to dissect fibrotic tissue away from healthy conjunctiva and divide the adhesions.
7. A provider performs the division of symblepharon and inserts a conformer to maintain the shape of the eye during the healing process.
8. A patient with symblepharon undergoes a procedure to remove scar tissue and adhesions, allowing for improved mobility of the eyelid.
9. A provider performs the division of symblepharon and inserts a contact lens to protect the cornea and improve the patient’s vision.
10. A patient with symblepharon undergoes a procedure to free the conjunctiva of the eyelid from the bulbar conjunctiva, allowing for improved eyelid function.