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CPT code 66940 refers to:

  1. Intracapsular lens removal

  2. Removal of lens material using aspiration

  3. Extracapsular lens removal other than specified in previous codes

  4. Removal of lens material by phacofragmentation

The correct answer is: Extracapsular lens removal other than specified in previous codes

CPT code 66940 specifically refers to the procedure for extricating the lens while retaining the anterior capsule, which is categorized under "extracapsular lens removal." This procedure typically involves the removal of the lens along with its capsule, a common step involved in cataract surgery. The term "extracapsular" signifies that the surgery removes the lens but aims to keep the surrounding capsule intact. The context of the other choices provides insight into the application of various surgical techniques. For instance, intracapsular lens removal, which is characterized by the complete removal of the lens and its capsule, falls under a different CPT designation. The aspiration method represents a technique within cataract surgery but doesn't correspond to the broader categorization that 66940 encompasses. Likewise, phacofragmentation is a more specific technique involving ultrasound to break apart lens material, which would likewise have a distinct code. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why 66940 is appropriately applied to general extracecapsular procedures rather than the more specialized techniques outlined in the other options.