CPT code 65770 denotes implantation of an artificial cornea (keratoprosthesis) to replace a damaged or severely diseased cornea and restore vision. This high-complexity ophthalmic surgery is used when conventional corneal transplantation is unsuitable or has failed. Nationally, the procedure is significant for patients with severe corneal disease, with implications for surgical capacity, specialty referral patterns, and payer coverage determinations.

Key payers discussed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The publication outlines what these payers typically consider when adjudicating claims for complex ophthalmic surgeries and highlights areas where coverage policy language can affect access and reimbursement.

Readers will find benchmarks for utilization and reimbursement patterns, clinical context on when a keratoprosthesis is indicated versus standard corneal transplant, and summaries of common payer policy features relevant to authorization and coding. The report also flags areas where coding clarity and documentation affect claims processing. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.