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ICD-10 Coding for Posterior Capsule Opacity(H26.41)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Posterior Capsule Opacity. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

PCOSecondary CataractAfter-cataract

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Posterior Capsule Opacity

H26.4Primary Range

After-cataract

This range includes codes for posterior capsule opacity, a common complication following cataract surgery.

Presence of intraocular lens

Used to indicate the presence of an intraocular lens, often relevant in cases of PCO.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for posterior capsule opacity

Essential facts and insights about Posterior Capsule Opacity

The ICD-10 code for posterior capsule opacity is H26.4-, with specific codes for laterality.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for posterior capsule opacity

After-cataract, right eye
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of opacified posterior lens capsule confirmed by slit-lamp exam.

documentation Criteria

  • BCVA measurement and functional impact statement required.

Applicable To

  • Opacified posterior lens capsule

Excludes

  • Anterior capsule opacification

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • BCVA ≤ 20/40 in affected eye
  • Slit-lamp exam confirming posterior capsule involvement

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality coding
  • Lack of specific documentation for posterior involvement

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies posterior capsule involvement and laterality.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Presence of intraocular lens

Z96.1
Use to indicate the presence of an intraocular lens in pseudophakic eyes.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Unspecified cataract

H26.9
Use only if documentation lacks specificity about posterior capsule involvement.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Posterior Capsule Opacity to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H26.41.

Impact

Clinical: Ambiguity in treatment records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document which eye is affected., Use standardized templates that include laterality fields.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records and statistics.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify and document the affected eye clearly in the medical record.

Impact

Incorrect use of modifiers during the global period.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure proper documentation of the necessity for return to OR and use of modifier -78.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Posterior Capsule Opacity, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Posterior Capsule Opacity

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Posterior Capsule Opacity. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

PCO with YAG Capsulotomy

Specialty: Ophthalmology

Required Elements

  • BCVA measurement
  • Functional impact statement
  • Slit-lamp exam findings
  • Consent for procedure

Example Documentation

Patient presents with glare and BCVA 20/40 OD due to posterior capsular fibrosis 2 years after phacoemulsification.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
YAG done for PCO.
Good Documentation Example
Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy OD using 1.2 mJ x 20 pulses. Central 3 mm opening achieved. Post-op IOP 18 mmHg. No complications.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the procedure, energy used, and post-op findings, ensuring comprehensive documentation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Posterior Capsule Opacity? Ask your questions below.

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