AMA CPT® Assistant - 2003 Issue 9 (September)
Implantation of Glaucoma Drainage Device: Aqueous Shunt, Part II (September 2003)
September 2003 pages 1-2 Implantation of Glaucoma Drainage Device: Aqueous Shunt, Part II This is the second in a series of articles on the filtration and drainage procedures most commonly performed to treat glaucoma. This article will discuss implantation of drainage devices (aqueous shunts), including a brief review of relevant anatomy, clinical indications, and coding concepts. Aqueous shunt procedures are performed in the anterior segment of the eye to reduce and control intraocular pressure (IOP). The device drains (shunts) some of the aqueous fluid from the anterior chamber into a reservoir beneath the conjunctiva, lowering the pressure in the...
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Article Overview
This September 2003 CPT Assistant article explains the general topic of aqueous shunt implantation for glaucoma and places it in the context of relevant eye anatomy, common clinical indications, and procedure overview. It is aimed at coders, ophthalmology practices, and other readers who need to understand the scope of glaucoma drainage device reporting and related laterality guidance. The article also discusses device examples, surgical approach, and a related allograft application in a non-disclosing way.
Why This Topic Matters
Glaucoma drainage device procedures are specialized ophthalmic surgeries with coding considerations that depend on the procedure type and documented laterality. Understanding the article helps readers recognize whether the content applies to their glaucoma surgery coding or documentation needs.
Article Sections
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September 2003 pages 1-2
Introduces the article topic and frames it as part of a series on glaucoma filtration and drainage procedures.
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Indications
Summarizes the clinical contexts in which drainage device implantation may be considered for glaucoma management.
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Anatomy Overview
Reviews eye anatomy relevant to the procedure, including the anterior segment and surrounding structures.
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Coding Implantation of Drainage Devices for Glaucoma
Addresses the coding framework for glaucoma drainage device implantation and notes laterality reporting guidance.
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The Procedure
Provides a general overview of the surgical steps and related operative elements associated with implantation of glaucoma drainage devices.
What You Will Learn
- The broad clinical situations associated with glaucoma drainage device implantation
- The eye anatomy relevant to aqueous shunt procedures
- The coding topic and laterality reporting considerations discussed in the article
- The general scope of the surgical technique and related operative materials
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Ophthalmology billers
- Ophthalmic surgeons
- Compliance and reimbursement staff
Codes Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
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