Advanced Search

Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Multiple Foreign Bodies

Published on Fri Sep 01, 2000

Question: If a physician removes multiple foreign bodies from the same cornea (65220*-65222*), can we bill for the multiples using the -51 modifier, or can we only use the procedure code once no matter how many are removed?

California Subscriber

Answer: CPT codes 65220* (removal of foreign body, external eye; corneal, without slit lamp) and 65222* (removal of foreign body, external eye; corneal, with slit lamp) should be used for removal of a single foreign body or for multiple foreign bodies. Do not use the modifier -51 in this case. It would be inappropriate to charge separately for the removal of each one of the foreign bodies. One way that you could get paid for the extra service is to append the modifier -22 (unusual procedural services) and briefly explain why the service was greater in the operative note, but this does not always get reimbursed.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

View All