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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH16.071

H16.071

Billable

Perforated corneal ulcer, right eye

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H16.071 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of perforated corneal ulcer, right eye.

Key Diagnostic Point:

H16.071 refers to a perforated corneal ulcer in the right eye, a serious ocular condition characterized by the erosion of the corneal epithelium leading to a full-thickness defect. Clinically, patients may present with severe eye pain, redness, photophobia, and decreased vision. The cornea, a transparent front part of the eye, plays a crucial role in focusing light and protecting internal structures. A perforated ulcer can result from various etiologies, including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, as well as chemical injuries or prolonged contact lens wear. Disease progression can lead to complications such as endophthalmitis, which is an inflammation of the interior of the eye, and potentially result in vision loss if not treated promptly. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough ocular examination, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, and possibly corneal cultures to identify the causative organism. Timely intervention is critical to prevent further ocular damage and preserve vision.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires differential diagnosis to rule out other corneal conditions.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention, such as corneal patch grafting or penetrating keratoplasty.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes, including symptoms, examination findings, and treatment plans, are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Accurate coding requires precise documentation of the perforation and its location.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the eye involved or failure to document the perforation.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes may lead to denials.
  • Billing challenges: High costs associated with surgical interventions may result in increased scrutiny from payers.

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 H16.071 lies in its potential to cause severe vision impairment or loss if not treated promptly. The population health impact is notable, as corneal ulcers can lead to increased healthcare utilization, including emergency visits and surgical interventions. Quality measures related to timely treatment and follow-up care are crucial in managing this condition. Epidemiologically, corneal ulcers are more prevalent in certain populations, particularly those with underlying health conditions or risk factors such as contact lens wear, highlighting the need for targeted public health initiatives.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of H16.071 lies in its potential to cause severe vision impairment or loss if not treated promptly. The population health impact is notable, as corneal ulcers can lead to increased healthcare utilization, including emergency visits and surgical interventions. Quality measures related to timely treatment and follow-up care are crucial in managing this condition. Epidemiologically, corneal ulcers are more prevalent in certain populations, particularly those with underlying health conditions or risk factors such as contact lens wear, highlighting the need for targeted public health initiatives.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the case and the necessity for surgical intervention. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or coding errors, particularly if the eye involved is not clearly specified. It is essential to ensure that all relevant clinical information is included in the medical record to support the diagnosis and justify the services billed. Adhering to coding best practices, including using modifiers when necessary, 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 H16.071?

H16.071 covers perforated corneal ulcers specifically in the right eye, which may arise from infections, trauma, or other corneal diseases leading to a full-thickness defect.

When should H16.071 be used instead of related codes?

H16.071 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of a perforated corneal ulcer in the right eye, distinguishing it from non-perforated ulcers or ulcers in the left eye.

What documentation supports H16.071?

Documentation should include a detailed history of the presenting symptoms, results from a comprehensive eye examination, any imaging or laboratory tests performed, and the treatment plan.