How To Use CPT Code 68700

CPT 68700 describes the plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye. 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 68700?

CPT 68700 is used to describe the plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye. This procedure is performed to prevent infection or other complications and to relieve pain or discomfort. It involves locating the severed ends of the canaliculus, using an operating microscope or surgical loupes to identify and isolate tiny structures, passing a pigtail probe through the canaliculus to open the passage, and then using a stent to keep the passage open and make it more accessible for repair. The provider sutures the severed tissues back into alignment and reattaches the ends of the duct. If the medial canthus tendon is torn, it is repaired as well. The procedure concludes with checking for bleeding and removing the probe.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 68700 is: ‘Plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. Using an operating microscope or surgical loupes, the provider locates the severed ends of the canaliculus.
3. A pigtail probe is passed through the canaliculus to open the passage.
4. A stent is inserted to keep the passage open and facilitate repair.
5. The provider sutures the severed tissues back into alignment and reattaches the ends of the duct.
6. If the medial canthus tendon is torn, it is repaired.
7. The provider checks for bleeding and removes the probe.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 68700 is performed when there is a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye that requires plastic repair. This procedure is necessary to prevent infection or other complications and to alleviate pain or discomfort. It is typically performed by a provider who is skilled in ophthalmic surgery and has the necessary equipment, such as an operating microscope or surgical loupes, to perform the procedure effectively.

5. When to use CPT code 68700

CPT code 68700 should be used when a plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye is performed. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and ensure that the medical necessity for the repair is clearly documented in the patient’s medical record.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 68700, the provider must document the following information:

• Details of the laceration and the need for plastic repair
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of an operating microscope or surgical loupes
• Documentation of the pigtail probe and stent insertion
• Description of the suturing and reattachment of the severed tissues
• Documentation of any additional repairs, such as the medial canthus tendon
• Confirmation of the absence of bleeding and removal of the probe
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 68700, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria for this specific code. It should not be reported if the laceration involves the eyelid or if a different type of repair is performed. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines. It is recommended to review the documentation requirements and guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 68700 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 sustains a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye due to trauma and undergoes plastic repair using CPT code 68700.
2. A provider performs plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye for a patient with a chronic condition that affects the tear ducts.
3. A child accidentally injures their canaliculus, and the provider performs plastic repair using CPT code 68700 to prevent complications and promote healing.
4. A patient presents with a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye caused by a foreign object, and the provider performs plastic repair to restore proper function.
5. A provider performs plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye for a patient who experienced a severe injury to the face.
6. A patient undergoes plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by the injury.
7. A provider performs plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye for a patient who has a history of recurrent infections in the tear ducts.
8. A child undergoes plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye to prevent complications and ensure proper tear drainage.
9. A patient with a congenital condition affecting the tear ducts undergoes plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye to improve tear flow.
10. A provider performs plastic repair of a laceration of the canaliculus of the eye for a patient who experienced a traumatic injury during a sports activity.