How To Use CPT Code 68760

CPT 68760 describes the closure of the lacrimal punctum using thermocauterization, ligation, or laser surgery. 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 68760?

CPT 68760 involves the closure of the lacrimal punctum, which is the opening at the inner corner of the eye where tears drain before entering the canaliculi. This closure is achieved through the use of thermocauterization, ligation, or laser surgery. The procedure is performed to treat dry eye syndrome, and it results in the shrinking of the punctum and the formation of scar tissue, which leads to its closure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 68760 is: ‘Closure of the lacrimal punctum; by thermocauterization, ligation, or laser surgery.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. Using a hot wire or laser, the provider cauterizes the lacrimal punctum to close it. Alternatively, they may choose to ligate, or tie off, the punctal opening.
3. After the closure, the patient is observed for a brief period and then released.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 68760 is performed when a patient presents with dry eye syndrome and requires the closure of the lacrimal punctum. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary training and expertise in performing thermocauterization, ligation, or laser surgery. The patient must have a documented diagnosis of dry eye syndrome and meet the criteria for the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 68760

CPT code 68760 should be used when a provider performs the closure of the lacrimal punctum using thermocauterization, ligation, or laser surgery. It is important to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and meets the criteria for reimbursement. This code should not be used for other procedures or treatments unrelated to the closure of the lacrimal punctum.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 68760, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of dry eye syndrome
• Details of the procedure performed, including the method used (thermocauterization, ligation, or laser surgery)
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as anesthesia used or any complications encountered
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 68760, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the necessary criteria for reimbursement. The provider should use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific method used for the closure of the lacrimal punctum. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company. Additionally, it is important to review any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 68760 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 dry eye syndrome undergoes thermocauterization of the lacrimal punctum to achieve closure.
2. A provider performs ligation of the lacrimal punctum in a patient with chronic dry eye.
3. A laser surgery is performed to close the lacrimal punctum in a patient with severe dry eye symptoms.
4. A provider uses thermocauterization to close the lacrimal punctum in a patient with recurrent eye infections.
5. A patient with dry eye syndrome undergoes laser surgery to achieve closure of the lacrimal punctum.
6. A provider performs ligation of the lacrimal punctum in a patient with persistent tearing and discomfort.
7. A laser surgery is performed to close the lacrimal punctum in a patient with corneal abrasions caused by dry eye.
8. A provider uses thermocauterization to achieve closure of the lacrimal punctum in a patient with ocular surface disease.
9. A patient with dry eye syndrome undergoes ligation of the lacrimal punctum to alleviate symptoms.
10. A provider performs laser surgery to achieve closure of the lacrimal punctum in a patient with chronic conjunctivitis.