0449T Insj aqueous drainage device first
Also known as: aqueous shunt insertion, glaucoma implant, drainage device
Insertion of an aqueous drainage device in the anterior chamber of the eye, first eye. Initial placement of glaucoma drainage implant.
In Plain Language
Installing eye pressure drain; First glaucoma drain implant
Clinical Context
Used for refractory glaucoma uncontrolled by medications. Improves aqueous humor drainage.
RVU Information
CPT 0449T does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. Category III codes for emerging technology do not receive RVU assignments. Reimbursement is negotiated with individual payers.
Billing & Documentation
Category III codes are temporary codes for emerging technology, services, and procedures. They are not assigned RVU values by CMS. Coverage and reimbursement vary by payer — check with individual insurers before billing. These codes sunset after 5 years if not converted to Category I.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 0449T?
CPT 0449T (Insj aqueous drainage device first) is a Category III code. Insertion of an aqueous drainage device in the anterior chamber of the eye, first eye. Initial placement of glaucoma drainage implant.
Is 0449T a permanent CPT code?
No — 0449T is a Category III temporary code for emerging technology. It may be converted to a permanent Category I code if widely adopted. Category III codes expire after 5 years without renewal.
When is CPT 0449T used?
Used for refractory glaucoma uncontrolled by medications. Improves aqueous humor drainage.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.