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CPT 67312: Strabismus Repair with Muscle Recession or Resection
CPT code 67312 represents a corrective ophthalmic surgery—strabismus repair—where an ophthalmologist performs a recession or resection of extraocular muscles to realign the eye. This code is used to report surgical correction of ocular misalignment and is clinically important because strabismus surgery can restore binocular function, reduce diplopia, and improve cosmetic appearance. Nationally, utilization of surgical eye muscle procedures affects surgical capacity in ambulatory surgical centers and hospitals and influences coverage and prior authorization practices among major payers.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find concise clinical context about the procedure and typical sites of care; a summary of common billing modifiers provided in the input; and guidance on areas that commonly affect coding and claims (for example, laterality, staged procedures, and bilateral versus unilateral reporting). The publication also outlines benchmarking topics and policy areas payers often address, such as coverage criteria, medical necessity documentation, and post-operative global period considerations.
This summary is intended for national audiences including clinicians, coding professionals, and policy analysts who need a clear, practical overview of what CPT code 67312 represents, who pays for it, and the key coding and policy topics to consider when handling related claims.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 67312 describes a strabismus repair procedure in which the surgeon performs either a recession (weakening) or resection (strengthening) of extraocular muscles to realign the eye and correct ocular misalignment. This procedure is focused on repairing or adjusting the position and function of the eye muscles to improve ocular alignment and binocular vision.
Service type: Ophthalmologic surgical procedure — strabismus surgery
Typical site of service: Ambulatory surgical center or hospital operating room, with care provided by an ophthalmologist trained in strabismus surgery. If performed in an outpatient setting, same-day surgical recovery is common.