65820 Goniotomy
Also known as: goniotomy, angle surgery, goniotomy glaucoma
Goniotomy.
In Plain Language
opening drainage angle of eye to lower pressure; surgical opening of eye's drainage channel
Clinical Context
Surgical opening of trabecular meshwork angle for angle-closure glaucoma or congenital glaucoma. Direct visualization with gonioscopic technique.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.69 |
| Total RVU | 8.69 |
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 8.69, this code ranks in the 53rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 65820?
CPT 65820 (Goniotomy) is a Surgery code. Goniotomy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 65820?
The work RVU for CPT 65820 is 8.69. This code is primarily used by glaucoma surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 65820 used?
Surgical opening of trabecular meshwork angle for angle-closure glaucoma or congenital glaucoma. Direct visualization with gonioscopic technique.
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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.