Ophthalmic Coding Specialist Practice Test

What is CPT code 66820 primarily used for?

1. Treatment of diabetic retinopathy

2. Discission of secondary membranous cataract

3. Repositioning of intraocular lens prosthesis

4. Glaucoma treatment

The correct answer is: Discission of secondary membranous cataract

CPT code 66820 is specifically utilized for the procedure known as the "dissection of secondary membranous cataract," commonly referred to as a capsulotomy. This procedure is performed to remove the opacified membrane that can develop behind an intraocular lens after cataract surgery. Over time, some patients may experience clouding of the capsule that holds the lens in place, leading to vision problems similar to those experienced before the original cataract surgery. Code 66820 underlines the significance of addressing this issue to restore clear vision, which illustrates its specific purpose within ophthalmic coding. The other options relate to different procedures or conditions not captured by this particular code: treatments for diabetic retinopathy involve different protocols, repositioning of intraocular lens prosthesis focuses on different surgical interventions, and glaucoma treatments encompass a variety of approaches unrelated to the capsule management described by code 66820. Thus, the precision of CPT code 66820 is what fully aligns with the procedure for the dissection of secondary membranous cataract.