2025 CPT code 66982
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Eye and Ocular Adnexa Surgery Feed
Complex extracapsular cataract removal with intraocular lens insertion, excluding endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation.
Modifiers may apply depending on the circumstances of the procedure (e.g., 50 for bilateral procedures, 59 for distinct procedural services, 22 for increased procedural services). Consult the CPT manual and payer guidelines for appropriate modifier usage.
Medical necessity for cataract surgery is generally established based on the impact of the cataract on the patient's visual acuity and functional ability.Documentation should justify the complexity of the procedure as indicated by the use of code 66982, such as the need for specific devices or techniques due to the patient's anatomy or medical history.
The ophthalmologist performs the surgical procedure, including prepping the patient, making the incision, removing the cataractous lens, inserting the IOL, and closing the incision. Post-operative care may be included depending on payer guidelines.
In simple words: This code describes a complex cataract surgery where the cloudy lens is removed, and a replacement lens is inserted.Special tools or techniques might be used during this surgery.
This CPT code 66982 represents extracapsular cataract extraction with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, employing complex techniques or devices not routinely used in standard cataract surgery.These may include an iris expansion device, suture support for the IOL, or primary posterior capsulorrhexis.The procedure does not encompass endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (a glaucoma treatment).
Example 1: A 70-year-old patient presents with a dense cataract in their right eye, requiring complex surgical intervention due to the lens's hardness and location.The surgeon utilizes phacoemulsification and an iris expansion device to facilitate IOL insertion. Code 66982 is used., A patient with a history of trauma to their left eye, requiring complex cataract surgery involving suture support for the IOL due to compromised capsular integrity.Code 66982 accurately reflects the complexity of the procedure., A 65-year-old patient with a significant cataract and a posterior capsular opacity requiring primary posterior capsulorrhexis before IOL implantation.Code 66982 is used.
Pre-operative assessment including visual acuity, ophthalmologic examination findings, and intraoperative details documenting techniques and devices used.Post-operative course and visual acuity should be documented.Medical necessity documentation is essential if required by the payer.
** This code is for complex cataract surgery requiring specialized techniques or equipment not used in routine cases.Always refer to the most up-to-date CPT manual and payer guidelines for accurate coding and reimbursement.
- Revenue Code: P4B
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
- Specialties:Ophthalmology
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Outpatient Hospital, Office