CPT® Code 66720

The ciliary body is an essential structure located just behind the iris of the eye. It plays a crucial role in two primary functions: the production of aqueous humor, which is the clear fluid filling the anterior chamber of the eye, and accommodation, which is the process that allows the crystalline lens to change shape for focusing on objects at varying distances. The procedure described by CPT® Code 66720 involves the destruction of the ciliary body, primarily indicated for the treatment of glaucoma that has not responded adequately to medication or other less invasive surgical interventions. By partially destroying the ciliary body, the inflow of aqueous humor into the anterior chamber is reduced, leading to a decrease in intraocular pressure, which is critical in managing glaucoma. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, where a lid speculum is utilized to keep the eyelids open, allowing access to the ciliary body. Cryotherapy is employed as the method of destruction, using a cryoprobe to rapidly freeze specific portions of the ciliary body tissue. This freezing is followed by a slow thawing process, and the freeze-thaw cycle is repeated until the desired amount of tissue destruction is achieved, effectively addressing the condition of glaucoma.