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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH11.039

H11.039

Billable

Double pterygium of unspecified eye

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H11.039 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of double pterygium of unspecified eye.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Double pterygium of the unspecified eye is characterized by the presence of two pterygia, which are abnormal growths of conjunctival tissue that extend onto the cornea. These growths can lead to visual disturbances, discomfort, and cosmetic concerns. The conjunctiva, sclera, and cornea are the primary anatomical structures involved, with the conjunctiva being the most affected. Pterygia often arise due to chronic UV exposure, dry environments, or irritation from dust and wind. The disease progression can vary; while some patients may experience minimal symptoms, others may have significant growth leading to astigmatism or encroachment on the visual axis. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including visual acuity testing and slit-lamp examination to assess the extent of the pterygium and any associated corneal changes. It is crucial to differentiate double pterygium from other conjunctival or corneal disorders to ensure appropriate management and treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires thorough examination and differentiation from other ocular surface disorders.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention if vision is affected or for cosmetic reasons.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes are necessary to justify the diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to reflect the specific condition and its severity.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of single vs. double pterygium.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding the extent of the pterygium and its impact on vision.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if the medical necessity for surgery 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

Double pterygium can significantly affect a patient's quality of life, leading to visual impairment and discomfort. The condition is more prevalent in populations with high UV exposure, such as those living in sunny climates. Understanding the epidemiology of pterygium can aid in developing preventive measures and public health initiatives aimed at reducing its incidence. Quality measures related to eye health may also include monitoring the prevalence of pterygium and ensuring timely intervention to maintain visual function.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Double pterygium can significantly affect a patient's quality of life, leading to visual impairment and discomfort. The condition is more prevalent in populations with high UV exposure, such as those living in sunny climates. Understanding the epidemiology of pterygium can aid in developing preventive measures and public health initiatives aimed at reducing its incidence. Quality measures related to eye health may also include monitoring the prevalence of pterygium and ensuring timely intervention to maintain visual function.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the necessity of surgical intervention if the pterygium affects vision or causes discomfort. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation of the medical necessity for surgery. Coders should ensure that all relevant details are included in the patient's medical record, including visual acuity tests and descriptions of the pterygium's impact on daily activities. Adhering to coding best practices will 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 H11.039?

H11.039 covers double pterygium affecting the unspecified eye, which includes cases where two pterygia are present but does not specify the eye involved. It is important to note that this code does not cover single pterygium cases or other conjunctival disorders.

When should H11.039 be used instead of related codes?

H11.039 should be used when there are two distinct pterygia present in the eye, particularly when they are causing visual impairment or significant symptoms. If only one pterygium is present, the appropriate single pterygium code should be used.

What documentation supports H11.039?

Documentation should include a detailed eye examination report, visual acuity measurements, descriptions of the pterygia's size and location, and any symptoms experienced by the patient. Surgical notes should also clearly outline the necessity for intervention.