CPT® Code 68540

The excision of a lacrimal gland tumor, as described by CPT® Code 68540, involves the surgical removal of a tumor located in the lacrimal gland, which is responsible for tear production. This gland is situated in the superotemporal region of the orbit and consists of two lobes: the larger orbital lobe and the smaller palpebral lobe. The orbital lobe is positioned behind the orbital bone and is not visible during a standard external eye examination, while the palpebral lobe can be identified when the eyelid is everted. Tumors in the lacrimal gland can arise from various conditions, including inflammatory processes such as dacryoadenitis and sarcoidosis, as well as neoplastic changes, which can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors may include pleomorphic adenomas and oncocytomas, whereas malignant tumors can consist of adenoid cystic carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, among others. The procedure typically employs a frontal approach, where an incision is made along the crease of the upper eyelid to access the gland. The surgical technique involves careful dissection to expose the lacrimal gland, followed by its excision. Pathological evaluation of frozen sections is performed to ensure that the tumor margins are clear of cancerous cells, and if necessary, additional surrounding tissue may be removed to achieve clean margins. The surgical site is then closed in layers to promote proper healing.