Medicare Reimbursement for YAG Laser Capsulotomy
During extracapsular cataract surgery, the posterior shell of the lens is preserved. If the posterior capsule later develops opacities that reduce visual acuity, a YAG laser is used to cut the capsule and/or the adjacent hyaloid membrane to restore clear vision. For some patients, multiple sessions may be needed to create an adequate opening in the lens capsule.
This FAQ addresses the following:
- What is a YAG laser capsulotomy?
- What are the indications for this procedure?
- What CPT code describes a YAG laser capsulotomy?
- What diagnoses support a claim for YAG laser capsulotomy?
- How should this procedure be documented in the medical record?
- How much does Medicare reimburse for 66821?
- Are repeat YAG procedures during the global surgery period covered?
- What is the frequency of YAG laser capsulotomy after cataract surgery?
- Is reimbursement made for YAG capsulotomy performed in the global surgery period of cataract?
- May 66821 be used to report YAG laser of the anterior capsule or to remove specks from the surface of the IOL?
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