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CPT 68815: Nasolacrimal Duct Probing with Tube or Stent Placement
CPT code 68815 represents probing of the nasolacrimal duct with possible irrigation and insertion of a tube or stent to treat or evaluate obstruction. This ophthalmic procedure is used to diagnose strictures or obstructions in the tear drainage system and to restore or maintain tear outflow. Nationally, the code matters because it captures a commonly performed lacrimal procedure that impacts surgical utilization, ambulatory surgical center volumes, and ophthalmic specialty billing patterns. Key payers examined include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will gain a concise clinical and billing overview of CPT code 68815, including service context, typical sites of service, and common modifiers provided in the input. The publication summarizes benchmarking considerations, coding nuances relevant to ophthalmology and oculoplastics, and clinical context for when lacrimal probing with stent placement is performed. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable. The summary is intended for payers, coding professionals, and clinical leaders seeking a national-level brief on this specific lacrimal procedure code.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 68815 describes a diagnostic and therapeutic lacrimal procedure in which the provider probes the nasolacrimal duct to identify an obstruction or stricture and may insert a tube or stent to maintain duct patency. The procedure may include irrigation of the duct but irrigation is optional.
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Service type: Diagnostic and therapeutic lacrimal duct probing with stent or tube placement
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Typical site of service: Ophthalmology or oculoplastic surgical setting; commonly performed in ambulatory surgical centers, hospital outpatient departments, or specialized ophthalmic clinics