Ophthalmic Coding Specialist Practice Test

In the context of cataract surgery coding, which term most accurately describes "aspiration technique"?

1. Phacofragmentation

2. Extracapsular breaking

3. Lens material removal

4. Capsulotomy

The correct answer is: Lens material removal

The term "aspiration technique" in cataract surgery primarily refers to the process of removing lens material from the eye during the procedure. This is commonly done after the cataract has been fragmented, and it involves using suction to extract the lens remnants, ensuring a clear visual pathway. The focus on lens material removal effectively captures the essence of aspiration, making it the most precise description in this context. Phacofragmentation, while related to cataract surgery, specifically describes the technique of breaking up the lens into smaller pieces, primarily using ultrasound. Extracapsular breaking is less commonly used as a term, and it doesn’t specifically denote the aspiration phase of the procedure. Capsulotomy refers to an incision made in the capsule surrounding the lens, which is an important step in cataract surgery, but it does not include the removal of lens material, which is the highlight of the aspiration technique. Thus, lens material removal stands out as the most accurate description of the aspiration technique in cataract surgery coding.