2025 ICD-10-CM code H17.9
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Diseases of the eye and adnexa - Disorders of sclera, cornea, iris and ciliary body 7 Feed
Unspecified corneal scar and opacity. This code is used when the specific type of corneal scar or opacity is not documented or known.
Medical necessity for the evaluation and management of corneal scar/opacity relates to the potential impact on vision and eye health. The degree of medical necessity hinges upon the severity of visual impairment and the presence of associated symptoms. Further investigation and intervention are medically necessary if the scar/opacity significantly impacts vision or causes other ocular complications.
Diagnosis and management of corneal scars and opacities typically fall under the purview of ophthalmologists. They conduct thorough eye examinations, assess the extent and type of corneal involvement, and recommend appropriate treatment strategies, which may range from observation to surgical interventions depending on the severity and impact on vision.
In simple words: This code indicates a scar or cloudy area on the surface of your eye, but the exact details aren't specified in the medical records.
Unspecified corneal scar and opacity. This code represents a condition where there is a scar or opacity on the cornea, but the specific type, location, or cause is not documented or specified. The cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, can become scarred or opaque due to various reasons like infections, injuries, or other eye diseases. This condition can affect vision depending on the size and location of the scar/opacity.
Example 1: A patient presents with blurred vision following a corneal abrasion a few months ago. Examination reveals a non-specific scar on the cornea, but the precise nature isn't clearly documented. H17.9 is used., A patient has a history of corneal ulcer but the type is unspecified in the record, and now exhibits a general corneal opacity. H17.9 is used due to the lack of specific details., An elderly patient presents with gradually worsening vision. Examination shows corneal clouding suggestive of a scar or opacity, but no further details are documented about its characteristics. H17.9 is applied.
Documentation should ideally specify the nature, location, and cause of corneal scar/opacity if known. If this level of detail is unavailable, a general description of the findings supporting the presence of unspecified corneal scar/opacity suffices.
- Specialties:Ophthalmology
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Inpatient Hospital