CPT® Code 68760

The procedure described by CPT® Code 68760 involves the closure of the lacrimal punctum, which is a small opening located at the inner corner of the eyelids that allows tears to drain from the eye into the nasal cavity. This procedure is primarily performed to treat dry eye syndrome, a condition characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the eye surface. To begin the procedure, anesthetic eye drops or other forms of local anesthesia are applied to the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the eye, near the punctum to minimize discomfort during the intervention. The closure of the punctum can be achieved through various methods, including thermocauterization, ligation, or laser surgery. In thermocauterization, an electrocautery device is utilized to burn the punctum, promoting scarring that leads to its closure. Ligation involves the use of sutures to physically close the punctum, while laser surgery entails the application of a laser to destroy the punctal opening. This procedure is distinct from CPT® Code 68761, which involves the placement of a plug in the punctum rather than its closure.