ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH17.9

H17.9

Billable

Unspecified corneal scar and opacity

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H17.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified corneal scar and opacity.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Unspecified corneal scar and opacity

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity
The clinical complexity of unspecified corneal scar and opacity can vary significantly based on the underlying cause, extent of scarring, and associated symptoms. Management may range from observation to surgical intervention.

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

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H17.9 When
  • When coding H17
  • 9, ensure that the documentation clearly indicates the presence of a corneal scar or opacity without specifying the cause
  • If the cause is known, consider using a more specific code
  • Document any associated symptoms or findings during the examination

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H17.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Accurate coding of H17.9 is crucial for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the patient's condition accurately. Misclassification may lead to denied claims or inadequate treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Accurate coding of H17.9 is crucial for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the patient's condition accurately. Misclassification may lead to denied claims or inadequate treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and to reflect the patient's condition accurately. Misclassification may lead to denied claims or inadequate treatment plans.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Corneal Opacity: Causes and Treatment
  • •
    Understanding Corneal Scars
  • •
    ICD-10-CM Coding for Ophthalmology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Corneal Opacity: Causes and Treatment
  • •
    Understanding Corneal Scars
  • •
    ICD-10-CM Coding for Ophthalmology

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of corneal scars?

Common causes include trauma, infections, and previous surgeries. Each cause may require different management strategies.

How is a corneal scar diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including visual acuity tests and slit-lamp examination to assess the extent of the scar.

What treatments are available for corneal scars?

Treatment options may include medications, contact lenses, or surgical procedures such as corneal transplant depending on the severity and impact on vision.