Ophthalmic Coding Specialist Practice Test

Code 66850 is designated for which of the following treatments?

1. Implantation of a phakic IOL

2. Complete removal and extraction of a cataract

3. Removal of cataract without lens replacement

4. Laser treatment for glaucoma

The correct answer is: Removal of cataract without lens replacement

The code 66850 is specifically designated for the removal of a cataract without lens replacement, which accurately describes its purpose in ophthalmic coding. This procedure refers to the phacoemulsification technique where the cloudy lens is extracted, but no intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted afterward. The context for this procedure is important; it's typically performed in cases where a patient may not require a lens replacement due to various reasons, such as the patient’s existing visual requirements or the presence of other ocular conditions that would make lens implantation inadvisable. While other treatments related to cataracts and glaucoma are critical in ophthalmology, they are classified under different specific codes. For instance, the implantation of a phakic IOL is a distinct procedure with its own code and does not fall under the removal classification. Likewise, complete removal and extraction of a cataract would involve the implantation of a new lens, thus not aligning with the definition tied to code 66850. Laser treatments for glaucoma, while essential, pertain to a different area of eye care and would be coded separately within the corresponding treatment classification.