Advanced Search

Ophthalmology and Optometry Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Baerveldt Implant

Published on Tue Mar 28, 2006

Question: Which CPT code should I report for a Baerveldt implant?


Ohio Subscriber


Answer: Report 66180 (Aqueous shunt to extraocular reservoir [e.g., Molteno, Schocket, Denver-Krupin]) for the implant of a Baerveldt drainage device. The implant drains "some of the aqueous fluid from the anterior chamber into a reservoir beneath the conjunctiva, lowering the pressure in the eye," according to the August 2003 CPT Assistant.

An aqueous shunt is a rare, complex procedure to treat glaucoma, performed far less frequently than typical treatments such as trabeculectomy.

The shunt procedure may also require that the ophthalmologist perform a scleral patch graft (67255, Scleral reinforcement [separate procedure]; with graft) during the same surgical session. The reason for the reinforcement is usually a sclera that is thin or weakened, sometimes from a previous surgery. The ophthalmologist performs this when inserting the shunt. If the graft is done on the same day as the shunt, report 67255.

For the shunt itself, use HCPCS code L8612 (Aqueous shunt).
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