CPT® Code 92137

Computerized ophthalmic diagnostic imaging (eg, optical coherence tomography [OCT]), posterior segment, with interpretation and report, unilateral or bilateral; retina, including OCT angiography

Computerized ophthalmic diagnostic imaging, specifically utilizing optical coherence tomography (OCT), is a sophisticated imaging technique employed to assess the posterior segment of the eye. This procedure can be performed unilaterally or bilaterally and includes the interpretation and reporting of findings. The primary focus of this imaging is the retina, and it encompasses OCT angiography (OCT-A), which provides detailed insights into the retinal microvasculature. OCT is a noninvasive and noncontact method that leverages the backscattering of light to visualize the intricate structures of the posterior segment, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of retinal health. This imaging modality is particularly valuable in diagnosing and monitoring conditions such as retinal vascular diseases and macular edema, with a significant emphasis on diabetic retinopathy. By examining retinal structure and thickness, OCT aids in the detection of ischemia and choroidal neovascularization, which are critical factors in the management of exudative macular degeneration. The procedure involves the patient being positioned in front of a scanning device, where they are instructed to focus on an internal target. This setup enables the acquisition of multiple radial scans of the retina and posterior segment, capturing thousands of images per second to analyze the microvasculature. The resulting digitized images are displayed on a monitor, allowing for precise calculations of retinal thickness and other relevant measurements. The physician interprets these images, reformats the OCT-A data, and compares it with non-angiographic images to evaluate the vasculature at various retinal and choroidal levels, identifying any signs of ischemia, microaneurysms, or neovascularization. The findings are meticulously documented in a report that becomes part of the patient's medical record, ensuring a thorough understanding of the patient's ocular health.