65850 Trabeculotomy ab externo
Also known as: external trabeculotomy, ab externo trabeculotomy
Trabeculotomy ab externo.
In Plain Language
opening trabecular meshwork from outside eye
Clinical Context
External approach to open trabecular meshwork for glaucoma. Less precise than ab interno techniques but used in selected cases.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.11 |
| Total RVU | 11.11 |
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 11.11, this code ranks in the 62nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 65850?
CPT 65850 (Trabeculotomy ab externo) is a Surgery code. Trabeculotomy ab externo.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 65850?
The work RVU for CPT 65850 is 11.11. This code is primarily used by glaucoma surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 65850 used?
External approach to open trabecular meshwork for glaucoma. Less precise than ab interno techniques but used in selected cases.
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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.