CPT® Code 65105

Enucleation of the eye, as described by CPT® Code 65105, is a surgical procedure that involves the complete removal of the eyeball (globe) along with the attachment of an implant to the extraocular muscles. This procedure is typically indicated for the treatment of serious conditions affecting the eye, such as intraocular melanoma, which is a type of cancer that originates in the eye, or retinoblastoma, a malignant tumor that primarily affects young children. Additionally, enucleation may be necessary in cases of severe trauma to the eye that cannot be repaired or salvaged. During the procedure, the surgeon carefully measures the globe and determines the length of the optic nerve to ensure proper placement of the implant. The use of a dissecting microscope aids in visualizing the intricate orbital structures and assessing the extent of any lesions or trauma present. A limbal incision is made to access the eye, and the extraocular muscles are meticulously exposed and divided to facilitate the removal of the globe. The optic nerve is then located and severed, allowing for the complete extraction of the eye. Unlike other codes such as 65101, which involves enucleation without an implant, or 65103, where an implant is placed but not attached to the muscles, CPT® Code 65105 specifies that the implant is not only placed in the muscle cone but also that the extraocular muscles are sutured to the implant, providing stability and support for the prosthetic eye.