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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH11.029

H11.029

Billable

Central pterygium of unspecified eye

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H11.029 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of central pterygium of unspecified eye.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Central pterygium of the unspecified eye is a growth of conjunctival tissue that extends onto the cornea, typically originating from the nasal side. Clinically, it presents as a triangular or wing-shaped fibrovascular tissue that can cause visual disturbances if it encroaches on the visual axis. The anatomy involved includes the conjunctiva, cornea, and potentially the sclera, depending on the extent of the pterygium. Disease progression can vary; some patients may experience minimal symptoms, while others may have significant irritation, redness, and visual impairment. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough ocular examination, where the pterygium's size, location, and impact on vision are assessed. Slit-lamp examination is crucial for evaluating the extent of corneal involvement and ruling out other conditions such as pinguecula or other conjunctival lesions. Management may involve observation, topical medications for inflammation, or surgical intervention in cases of significant visual impairment or discomfort.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires a comprehensive eye examination and differential diagnosis.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve medical management or surgical intervention based on severity.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes are necessary to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate between types of pterygium and other conjunctival disorders.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentifying the eye involved or confusing with similar conditions.
  • Documentation gaps: Inadequate clinical notes to support the diagnosis or treatment.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if the medical necessity is not clearly established.

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

The clinical significance of central pterygium lies in its potential to cause visual impairment and discomfort, impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. Population health impact includes the prevalence of pterygium in certain geographic areas, particularly those with high UV exposure. Quality measures may involve monitoring the outcomes of surgical interventions and patient satisfaction. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns related to pterygium treatment can help in resource allocation and preventive strategies, particularly in at-risk populations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of central pterygium lies in its potential to cause visual impairment and discomfort, impacting the quality of life for affected individuals. Population health impact includes the prevalence of pterygium in certain geographic areas, particularly those with high UV exposure. Quality measures may involve monitoring the outcomes of surgical interventions and patient satisfaction. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns related to pterygium treatment can help in resource allocation and preventive strategies, particularly in at-risk populations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the medical necessity of the procedure, especially if surgical intervention is required. Common denials may arise if the documentation does not adequately support the diagnosis or if the procedure is deemed not medically necessary. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical notes are thorough and that any surgical procedures are well-justified in the context of the patient's symptoms and visual impairment.

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 H11.029?

H11.029 specifically covers central pterygium of the unspecified eye, which is characterized by the growth of conjunctival tissue onto the cornea. It does not include other types of pterygium or conjunctival lesions.

When should H11.029 be used instead of related codes?

H11.029 should be used when the pterygium is central and the eye involved is unspecified. If the pterygium is located on a specific eye (right or left), then H11.021 or H11.022 should be used.

What documentation supports H11.029?

Documentation should include a detailed ocular examination report, noting the size and location of the pterygium, any associated symptoms, and the impact on vision. Treatment plans and follow-up notes are also essential.