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The procedure described by CPT® Code 0191T involves the insertion of an anterior segment aqueous drainage device, which is specifically designed to manage conditions such as chronic or progressive open-angle glaucoma. This type of device is characterized by the absence of an extraocular reservoir, meaning that it operates entirely within the eye. The insertion is performed through an internal approach, targeting the trabecular meshwork, which is a crucial component of the eye's drainage system. The procedure begins with the creation of a small, self-sealing incision in the cornea, which is then deepened to gain access to the anterior chamber of the eye. To ensure precise placement of the drainage device, a magnification lens, such as a gonioscope, is utilized. This allows the surgeon to accurately position the drainage device at the angle of the anterior chamber, ensuring that the terminal end of the device is correctly situated within the trabecular meshwork. Notably, due to the minimal size of the incision, there is no need for suturing, as the incision will naturally seal itself. For any additional aqueous drainage devices that may be inserted during the same surgical session, the appropriate code to report is 0376T.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The insertion of an anterior segment aqueous drainage device, as described by CPT® Code 0191T, is indicated for the treatment of specific ocular conditions. These include:
The procedure for the insertion of the anterior segment aqueous drainage device involves several critical steps, which are detailed as follows:
After the insertion of the anterior segment aqueous drainage device, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications. Post-procedure care may include the use of topical medications to prevent infection and manage inflammation. Patients are advised to follow up with their ophthalmologist to assess the effectiveness of the drainage device and to monitor intraocular pressure. Recovery expectations may vary, but due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, many patients can resume normal activities relatively quickly, although specific restrictions may be provided by the healthcare provider.
| Short Descr | INSERT ANT SEGMENT DRAIN INT | Medium Descr | ANT SEGMENT INSERTION DRAINAGE W/O RESERVOIR INT | Long Descr | Insertion of anterior segment aqueous drainage device, without extraocular reservoir, internal approach, into the trabecular meshwork; initial insertion | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P4E - Eye procedure - other | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 14 - Glaucoma procedures |
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| 2021-12-31 | Deleted | Code deleted. For anterior segment drainage device implantation without concomitant cataract removal, use 0671T |
| 2015-01-01 | Changed | Description Changed |
| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Long description revised. |
| 2009-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 2009. |
| 2008-07-01 | Added | - |
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