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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH11.009

H11.009

Billable

Unspecified pterygium of unspecified eye

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H11.009 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified pterygium of unspecified 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. The condition typically presents as a triangular, fleshy growth on the conjunctiva, which may cause irritation, redness, and visual disturbances if it encroaches on the visual axis. Anatomically, pterygium affects the conjunctiva, sclera, and corneal surface, potentially leading to astigmatism or other refractive errors. Disease progression can vary; some patients may experience minimal symptoms, while others may require surgical intervention due to significant growth or discomfort. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough ocular examination, patient history, and assessment of symptoms. The unspecified nature of H11.009 indicates that the specific eye affected (right or left) is not documented, which may complicate treatment planning and follow-up care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Moderate, as pterygium can be confused with other conjunctival lesions.
  • Treatment complexity: Moderate, with options ranging from observation to surgical excision.
  • Documentation requirements: Requires clear documentation of symptoms and examination findings.
  • Coding specificity: Low, as the unspecified nature limits specificity in reporting.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misuse of unspecified codes when more specific codes are available.
  • Documentation gaps: Lack of detailed examination findings or patient history.
  • Billing challenges: Potential for claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

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 with high UV exposure, impacting quality of life and visual acuity. Its management is crucial in preventing complications such as astigmatism and recurrent growth. Understanding the epidemiology of pterygium can inform public health initiatives aimed at reducing UV exposure and improving eye health. Quality measures may include tracking surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction post-treatment.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pterygium is prevalent in populations with high UV exposure, impacting quality of life and visual acuity. Its management is crucial in preventing complications such as astigmatism and recurrent growth. Understanding the epidemiology of pterygium can inform public health initiatives aimed at reducing UV exposure and improving eye health. Quality measures may include tracking surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction post-treatment.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement may vary based on the complexity of the procedure performed, such as excision or observation. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding. It is essential to ensure that all relevant clinical information is included in the patient's medical record to support the billed services. Familiarity with payer-specific guidelines and coding best practices can help mitigate billing challenges.

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 H11.009?

H11.009 covers unspecified pterygium, which may include cases where the growth is not clearly defined or documented as affecting a specific eye. It does not cover other conjunctival or corneal disorders.

When should H11.009 be used instead of related codes?

H11.009 should be used when the specific eye affected is not documented or when the pterygium is not clearly defined. If the eye is specified, use H11.001 or H11.002.

What documentation supports H11.009?

Documentation should include a comprehensive eye examination report, details of the pterygium's size, location, and any associated symptoms. Patient history regarding exposure to risk factors should also be included.