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The CPT® Code 66983 refers to a specific surgical procedure known as intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE) with the insertion of an intraocular lens (IOL) prosthesis, which is performed as a single-stage operation. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the cataractous lens from within the eye's capsule, which is the thin membrane that encases the lens. Although ICCE was once a common method for cataract removal, it has become less prevalent due to advancements in surgical techniques, particularly the development of extracapsular cataract extraction methods that are less invasive and promote quicker recovery. During the ICCE procedure, a significant incision is made at the corneoscleral junction, which is the area where the cornea meets the sclera. This incision allows access to the eye's interior. The surgeon then injects a solution that dissolves the zonular fibers, which are the connective tissues that support the lens in its natural position. Following this, a cryoprobe is utilized to freeze the lens, allowing for its removal along with the probe. Once the native lens is extracted, the IOL is positioned in front of the iris to restore vision. Finally, the eyelid is sutured closed to facilitate the healing process. This detailed description provides insight into the technical aspects of the procedure while highlighting its historical context and current relevance in ophthalmic surgery.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The procedure described by CPT® Code 66983 is indicated for patients suffering from cataracts, which are characterized by the clouding of the lens of the eye, leading to impaired vision. The following conditions may warrant the performance of this procedure:
The procedure of intracapsular cataract extraction with insertion of an intraocular lens prosthesis involves several critical steps, each essential for the successful removal of the cataract and restoration of vision.
After the completion of the intracapsular cataract extraction and the insertion of the intraocular lens, patients typically require post-operative care to ensure proper healing and recovery. It is essential to monitor for any signs of complications, such as infection or increased intraocular pressure. Patients may be prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops to aid in the healing process and to prevent infection. Follow-up appointments are crucial to assess the healing of the eye and the effectiveness of the intraocular lens. Patients are often advised to avoid strenuous activities and to protect the eye from trauma during the initial recovery period. The expected recovery time can vary, but many patients experience improved vision within a few days following the procedure.
| Short Descr | CATARACT SURG W/IOL 1 STAGE | Medium Descr | ICAPSULAR CATARACT XTRJ INSJ IO LENS PRSTH 1 STG | Long Descr | Intracapsular cataract extraction with insertion of intraocular lens prosthesis (1 stage procedure) | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | 090 - Major Surgery | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 1 - Statutory 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 | ASC Payment Indicator | Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight. | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P4B - Eye procedure - cataract removal/lens insertion | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 15 - Lens and cataract procedures |
| RT | Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body) | 50 | Bilateral procedure: unless otherwise identified in the listings, bilateral procedures that are performed at the same session, should be identified by adding modifier 50 to the appropriate 5 digit code. note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d). | 51 | Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d). | 52 | Reduced services: under certain circumstances a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the physician or other qualified health care professional. under these circumstances the service provided can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 52, signifying that the service is reduced. this provides a means of reporting reduced services without disturbing the identification of the basic service. note: for hospital outpatient reporting of a previously scheduled procedure/service that is partially reduced or cancelled as a result of extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient prior to or after administration of anesthesia, see modifiers 73 and 74 (see modifiers approved for asc hospital outpatient use). | 55 | Postoperative management only: when 1 physician or other qualified health care professional performed the postoperative management and another performed the surgical procedure, the postoperative component may be identified by adding modifier 55 to the usual procedure number. | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | 73 | Discontinued out-patient hospital/ambulatory surgery center (asc) procedure prior to the administration of anesthesia: due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well being of the patient, the physician may cancel a surgical or diagnostic procedure subsequent to the patient's surgical preparation (including sedation when provided, and being taken to the room where the procedure is to be performed), but prior to the administration of anesthesia (local, regional block(s) or general). under these circumstances, the intended service that is prepared for but cancelled can be reported by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 73. note: the elective cancellation of a service prior to the administration of anesthesia and/or surgical preparation of the patient should not be reported. for physician reporting of a discontinued procedure, see modifier 53. | 79 | Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.) | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | LT | Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body) | SG | Ambulatory surgical center (asc) facility service |
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| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Guideline information changed. |
| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 2009-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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