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Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Lacricath Dacryoplasty

Published on Fri Sep 01, 2000

Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the box below for the answer.



Question: I am trying to find a CPT code for lacricath dacryoplasty. Basically, the doctor used a balloon to open a nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

Delaware Subscriber


Answer: The lacrimal system serves to keep the conjuntivae and cornea moist through the production, distribution and elimination of tears. CPT code 68801 (dilation of the lacrimal punctum, with or without irrigation) most closely describes it, even though a balloon is not specified as a means of opening the duct. If the use of the balloon technique requires considerable more effort on the part of the physician, you can append modifier -22 (unusual procedural service) and attach a copy of the procedure note to the bill.
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