How To Use CPT Code 68770

CPT 68770 describes the closure of a lacrimal fistula, which is an abnormal opening in the tear duct. 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 68770?

CPT 68770 is used to describe the closure of a lacrimal fistula, which is an abnormal opening in the tear duct. The procedure involves the provider using cautery to close off the fistula in the lacrimal sac, or tear duct. This is done to treat drainage of tears from the fistula or inflammation of the tear duct.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 68770 is the closure of a lacrimal fistula through the use of cautery. This procedure is performed to treat tear drainage from the fistula or inflammation of the tear duct.

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. Using cautery, the provider closes off the fistula in the lacrimal sac.
3. The patient is observed for a brief period before being released.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 68770 is performed to treat a lacrimal fistula, which can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired. The procedure is indicated when there is tear drainage from the fistula or inflammation of the tear duct.

5. When to use CPT code 68770

CPT code 68770 should be used when the provider performs the closure of a lacrimal fistula using cautery. It is important to ensure that the procedure is necessary to treat tear drainage from the fistula or inflammation of the tear duct.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 68770, the provider must document the following information:

• Diagnosis indicating the presence of a lacrimal fistula and the need for closure
• Details of the procedure, including the use of cautery
• Date of the procedure
• Observation period and any post-procedure instructions
• Provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 68770, ensure that the procedure involves the closure of a lacrimal fistula using cautery. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code and any associated modifiers. CPT code 68770 should not be reported with other codes unless medically necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT 68770 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with tear drainage from a lacrimal fistula. The provider performs the closure of the fistula using cautery.
2. A lacrimal fistula is causing inflammation of the tear duct in a patient. The provider uses cautery to close off the fistula and alleviate the inflammation.
3. A congenital lacrimal fistula is causing excessive tear drainage in a patient. The provider performs the closure of the fistula using cautery to address the issue.
4. A patient develops a lacrimal fistula following trauma to the tear duct. The provider uses cautery to close off the fistula and prevent tear drainage.
5. A lacrimal fistula is causing recurrent infections in a patient’s tear duct. The provider performs the closure of the fistula using cautery to resolve the issue.
6. A patient experiences chronic inflammation of the tear duct due to a lacrimal fistula. The provider uses cautery to close off the fistula and alleviate the inflammation.
7. A congenital lacrimal fistula is causing discomfort and tear drainage in a patient. The provider performs the closure of the fistula using cautery to improve the patient’s symptoms.
8. A patient presents with a lacrimal fistula that is causing tear drainage and irritation. The provider uses cautery to close off the fistula and alleviate the symptoms.
9. A lacrimal fistula is causing recurrent tearing and discomfort in a patient. The provider performs the closure of the fistula using cautery to address the issue.
10. A patient develops a lacrimal fistula following a previous surgical procedure. The provider uses cautery to close off the fistula and prevent further complications.