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Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Diagnosis Coding for Damaged Ducts

Published on Mon Feb 23, 2009

Question: I am having trouble finding the proper diagnosis code for this claim. The ophthalmologist performs an intermediate ophthalmological exam for an established patient. The notes indicate that the patient's lacrimal duct was damaged due to tear overproduction. Can you help me find an ICD-9 code for this claim? New Mexico Subscriber Answer: The condition your doctor described in the notes is dacryops. According to the ICD-9 2009 manual, the condition is defined as "Overproduction and constant flow of tears; may cause distended lacrimal duct."
On the claim, link ICD-9 code 375.11 (Dacryops) to 92012 (Ophthalmological services: medical examination and evaluation, with initiation or continuation of diagnostic and treatment program; intermediate, established patient).
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