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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH11.002

H11.002

Billable

Unspecified pterygium of left eye

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H11.002 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified pterygium of left eye.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Pterygium is a benign growth of conjunctival tissue that extends onto the cornea, often associated with exposure to UV light, wind, and dust. In the case of unspecified pterygium of the left eye (H11.002), the growth may vary in size and can cause discomfort, irritation, and visual disturbances as it encroaches upon the corneal surface. The anatomy involved includes the conjunctiva, which is the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye, the sclera, which is the outer protective layer, and the cornea, which is the transparent front part of the eye crucial for vision. Disease progression can lead to increased vascularization and inflammation, potentially resulting in astigmatism or other refractive errors. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough eye examination, where the clinician assesses the size, location, and symptoms associated with the pterygium. Slit-lamp examination is often employed to evaluate the extent of the growth and its impact on the cornea and visual acuity. Treatment may range from observation to surgical excision, particularly if the pterygium causes significant discomfort or visual impairment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and possibly imaging to assess the extent of the pterygium.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention, which requires pre-operative and post-operative care.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes are necessary to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other types of pterygium or related conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentifying the eye involved or using a more general code.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding symptoms and treatment rationale.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if the necessity for surgical intervention is not well-documented.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Optometry

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Pterygium is prevalent in populations exposed to high levels of UV light, particularly in sunny climates. The clinical significance lies in its potential to cause visual impairment and discomfort, impacting quality of life. Understanding the epidemiology of pterygium can aid in preventive measures and public health initiatives aimed at reducing exposure to risk factors. Quality measures may include tracking surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction post-treatment.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pterygium is prevalent in populations exposed to high levels of UV light, particularly in sunny climates. The clinical significance lies in its potential to cause visual impairment and discomfort, impacting quality of life. Understanding the epidemiology of pterygium can aid in preventive measures and public health initiatives aimed at reducing exposure to risk factors. Quality measures may include tracking surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction post-treatment.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include verifying the medical necessity for any surgical procedures performed. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate the impact of the pterygium on the patient's vision. Best practices include maintaining thorough clinical notes and ensuring that the coding accurately reflects the diagnosis and treatment provided.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for H00-H99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for H00-H99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by H11.002?

H11.002 specifically covers unspecified pterygium of the left eye, which may present with symptoms such as redness, irritation, and visual disturbances. It does not include other types of conjunctival or corneal disorders.

When should H11.002 be used instead of related codes?

H11.002 should be used when the pterygium is specifically located in the left eye and is unspecified in nature. If the pterygium is documented as recurrent or has specific characteristics, other codes may be more appropriate.

What documentation supports H11.002?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical examination, patient symptoms, treatment rationale, and any imaging studies performed. Clear notes on the extent of the pterygium and its impact on vision are essential.