Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Look to 65210 for Conjunctival Concretion Removal

Question: Can you help me determine the right code for removing conjunctival concretions? The ophthalmologist flipped up the right eyelid and scraped the concretions off. The diagnosis was H11.121 (Conjunctival concretions, right eye).

Alabama Subscriber

Answer: You should report 65210 (Removal of foreign body, external eye; conjunctival embedded (includes concretions), subconjunctival, or scleral nonperforating) for removal of conjunctival concretions, and link it to H11.121 as your diagnosis code.

Some coders may be cautious about including conjunctival concretions in a foreign body removal code, but even though these substances are made by the person’s own body, they are considered foreign bodies for coding purposes.