2025 CPT code 65265

Removal of foreign body, intraocular, from posterior segment, nonmagnetic extraction.

Do not report this code in conjunction with codes for removal of implanted material (67120) as these procedures are distinct.

Modifiers may be applicable in specific situations, such as increased procedural services (22), bilateral procedures (50), or multiple procedures (51), to accurately reflect the services provided. Check current year guidelines for specific rules regarding modifier usage.

Medical necessity for this procedure is established by the presence of a foreign body in the posterior segment of the eye, potentially causing pain, inflammation, or vision impairment. The documentation should clearly demonstrate the clinical rationale for removal.

The ophthalmologist is responsible for preparing the patient, locating the foreign body, and performing the extraction.

IMPORTANT For removal of implanted material from posterior segment, use 67120. For removal of foreign body, intraocular; from anterior chamber of eye or lens; use 65235. For removal of foreign body, intraocular; from posterior segment, magnetic extraction, anterior or posterior route use 65260.

In simple words: The doctor removes a non-metal object from the back part of your eye.They will numb your eye and use tiny tools to carefully take the object out.

This procedure involves the extraction of a nonmetallic foreign object from the posterior segment (back two-thirds) of the eye.After the patient is prepped and anesthetized, the surgeon examines the injury site in the posterior segment. The foreign body is located, and forceps are used to grasp and remove it.

Example 1: A patient presents with a piece of glass embedded in the posterior segment of the eye following an accident., A patient has a small plastic fragment lodged in the vitreous cavity after a toy malfunctioned., A patient requires removal of a non-magnetic foreign body from the posterior segment after an industrial injury.

Documentation should include details of the injury, the type and location of the foreign body, the method of extraction, and any complications encountered. Pre- and post-operative examinations and any imaging used (e.g., ultrasound) must also be documented.

** If ultrasound is used to localize the foreign body, it can be reported separately with code 76529. It is essential to differentiate between a foreign body and implanted material. If the object was surgically placed, use code 67120 instead.

  • Revenue Code: P4E - EYE PROCEDURE - OTHER
  • Specialties:Ophthalmology
  • Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient Department, Physician's office
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