CPT® Code 0616T

Deleted

Insertion of iris prosthesis, including suture fixation and repair or removal of iris, when performed; without removal of crystalline lens or intraocular lens, without insertion of intraocular lens

The procedure described by CPT® Code 0616T involves the insertion of an iris prosthesis, which is a specialized silicone disc designed to address various conditions affecting the iris. This procedure is indicated for patients with a defective, missing, or damaged iris resulting from acquired defects, trauma, congenital aniridia, or albinism. The iris prosthesis is custom-made to fit the individual patient, featuring a colorized design that includes a fixed diameter pupil to match the appearance of the other eye. The back of the prosthesis is designed with a black surface that effectively blocks light, allowing it to pass only through the pupil, thereby mimicking the natural function of the iris. During the surgical procedure, the outer diameter of the iris prosthesis is tailored to the patient's specific needs using a trephine, ensuring a precise fit. The insertion can be performed through various approaches, including the capsular bag, the ciliary sulcus via a sclerocorneal approach, or through an 'open sky' technique during a concomitant penetrating keratoplasty. The disc is typically folded and inserted manually using forceps or an autoinjector, and in some cases, suture fixation may be employed based on the patient's anatomical considerations and surgical requirements. It is important to note that the placement of an artificial iris should ideally occur simultaneously with the insertion of an intraocular lens (IOL) for patients undergoing cataract surgery. This approach helps to prevent potential complications such as glare sensitivity that may arise if the cataract is treated separately before addressing the iris defect. For accurate coding, CPT® Code 0616T should be reported for the insertion of the iris prosthesis alone, while additional codes are designated for procedures involving the removal of the crystalline lens and insertion of an IOL or for secondary IOL placements.