Ophthalmic Coding Specialist Practice Test

If an ophthalmic procedure involves only foreign body removal without lens involvement, which code applies?

1. 66987

2. 65235

3. 66850

4. 66984

The correct answer is: 65235

The code that applies when an ophthalmic procedure involves only foreign body removal without lens involvement is indeed 65235. This code refers specifically to the removal of a foreign body from the conjunctiva or cornea, typically through direct extraction. In this context, it's important to understand that the procedure does not involve the lens, which differentiates it from other codes that pertain to more complex procedures involving intraocular structures such as cataracts or lens replacements. The other codes listed correlate with different types of procedures. For instance, codes like 66987, 66850, and 66984 are associated with cataract operations or other intraocular surgeries, where lens extraction or manipulation is involved. Therefore, they would not be appropriate in a situation where the procedure is solely focused on foreign body removal from the eye surface without any lens interaction. This distinction ensures accurate coding for the specific type of ophthalmic procedure performed.