65101 Removal of eye
Also known as: enucleation, eye removal simple
Surgical removal of the eye (enucleation) for extensive trauma, malignancy, or uncontrolled pain. Performed without removal of extraocular muscles or orbital content.
In Plain Language
removing the eye; eye removal
Clinical Context
Indicated for blind painful eye, intraocular malignancy, severe ocular trauma, or end-stage glaucoma. Enucleation is more common and less morbid than evisceration.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.09 |
| Total RVU | 8.09 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 8.09, this code ranks in the 50th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 65101?
CPT 65101 (Removal of eye) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of the eye (enucleation) for extensive trauma, malignancy, or uncontrolled pain. Performed without removal of extraocular muscles or orbital content.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 65101?
The work RVU for CPT 65101 is 8.09. This code is primarily used by Ophthalmology, Oculoplastic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 65101 used?
Indicated for blind painful eye, intraocular malignancy, severe ocular trauma, or end-stage glaucoma. Enucleation is more common and less morbid than evisceration.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.