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Official Description

Suprachoroidal space injection of pharmacologic agent (separate procedure)

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 67516 refers to the procedure of a suprachoroidal space injection of a pharmacologic agent, which is classified as a separate procedure. This technique is primarily utilized to address various diseases affecting the posterior segment of the eye, which includes critical structures such as the retina, macula, and optic nerve. Common conditions treated with this injection include age-related macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusion, and diabetic macular edema. The suprachoroidal space itself is a narrow anatomical area located between the choroid and the sclera, extending from the limbus (the border between the cornea and the sclera) to the optic nerve. This space is characterized by a defined inner layer of the choroid known as Bruch's membrane, along with an outer transition zone that consists of several fibrous lamellae of varying thickness, which are situated close to the sclera. During the procedure, a specialized handheld microinjector, which consists of a syringe and a very fine needle, is employed to deliver the pharmacologic agent. The needle is carefully inserted through the sclera, allowing the fluid to be injected into the posterior segment of the eye, where it subsequently disperses around the globe and throughout the choroid and retina, facilitating targeted treatment of the underlying conditions.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The suprachoroidal space injection of a pharmacologic agent is indicated for the treatment of various diseases affecting the posterior segment of the eye. These conditions include:

  • Age-Related Macular Degeneration - A progressive eye disease that can result in vision loss due to damage to the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision.
  • Retinal Vein Occlusion - A blockage of the veins that carry blood away from the retina, which can lead to vision impairment and other complications.
  • Diabetic Macular Edema - A condition characterized by swelling in the macula due to fluid leakage from blood vessels, often associated with diabetes, leading to vision distortion and loss.

2. Procedure

The procedure for suprachoroidal space injection involves several critical steps to ensure accurate delivery of the pharmacologic agent. These steps include:

  • Preparation of the Patient - The patient is positioned comfortably, and the eye is prepared for the injection. This may involve the application of topical anesthetic drops to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
  • Identification of Injection Site - The physician identifies the appropriate site on the sclera for the injection, ensuring it is in the correct location to access the suprachoroidal space effectively.
  • Insertion of the Needle - A very fine needle attached to a handheld microinjector is carefully inserted through the sclera. The insertion is performed with precision to avoid damage to surrounding structures.
  • Injection of the Pharmacologic Agent - Once the needle is in place, the pharmacologic agent is injected into the suprachoroidal space. The fluid disperses throughout the posterior segment, targeting the affected areas of the retina and choroid.
  • Post-Injection Monitoring - After the injection, the patient is monitored for any immediate adverse reactions or complications, ensuring that the procedure was successful and that the patient is stable.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the suprachoroidal space injection, patients may experience some temporary discomfort or mild irritation in the eye. It is essential to monitor for any signs of complications, such as increased intraocular pressure or infection. Patients are typically advised to avoid strenuous activities and to follow any specific post-procedure care instructions provided by their healthcare provider. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to monitor the patient's recovery and overall eye health.

Short Descr SPRCHOROIDAL SPC NJX RX AGT
Medium Descr SUPRACHOROIDAL SPACE NJX PHARMACOLOGIC AGENT
Long Descr Suprachoroidal space injection of pharmacologic agent (separate procedure)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies
ASC Payment Indicator Office-based surgical procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later with MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs; payment based on MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE 1
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
79 Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.)
50 Bilateral procedure: unless otherwise identified in the listings, bilateral procedures that are performed at the same session, should be identified by adding modifier 50 to the appropriate 5 digit code. note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
58 Staged or related procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was: (a) planned or anticipated (staged); (b) more extensive than the original procedure; or (c) for therapy following a surgical procedure. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 58 to the staged or related procedure. note: for treatment of a problem that requires a return to the operating/procedure room (eg, unanticipated clinical condition), see modifier 78.
78 Unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician or other qualified health care professional following initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that another procedure was performed during the postoperative period of the initial procedure (unplanned procedure following initial procedure). when this procedure is related to the first, and requires the use of an operating/procedure room, it may be reported by adding modifier 78 to the related procedure. (for repeat procedures, see modifier 76.)
JZ Zero drug amount discarded/not administered to any patient
Date
Action
Notes
2024-01-01 Added Code Added.
Code
Description
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