In simple words: The doctor checks and widens a narrow tear duct passage using a small tube and a tiny balloon to improve tear drainage into the nose.

This procedure involves probing the nasolacrimal duct, the passageway between the tear ducts and the nose, to correct a stricture (narrowing).After appropriate preparation and anesthesia, the punctum (opening of the tear duct) is dilated. A probe is then inserted into the inferior or superior punctum and advanced through the nasolacrimal duct until resistance is met. Irrigation with a saline solution containing dye is performed, followed by transluminal balloon catheter dilation of the lacrimal duct.Further irrigation may be necessary.Finally, the catheter is removed, an antibiotic is applied, and the patient is observed before discharge.

Example 1: A patient presents with epiphora (excessive tearing) and recurrent dacryocystitis (inflammation of the tear sac) due to a nasolacrimal duct obstruction.68816 is used to dilate the duct and restore drainage., A patient experiences chronic tearing and discomfort after previous unsuccessful probing and irrigation of the nasolacrimal duct.68816 is used as a more aggressive approach to widen the duct., A pediatric patient has congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction.68816 may be considered to correct the blockage and improve drainage, although other approaches may be more suitable.

* Preoperative and postoperative evaluations.* Detailed description of the procedure performed, including the type of probe and catheter used.* Documentation of any complications or adverse effects.* Any imaging studies that were used (e.g., dacryocystography).* Confirmation of improvement in tear drainage.

** This procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia but may be done under general anesthesia in specific cases (e.g., pediatric patients). Always refer to the most up-to-date CPT codebook and payer guidelines for accurate coding and reimbursement.