65855 Trabeculoplasty laser surgical
Also known as: laser trabeculoplasty, argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT), selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Trabeculoplasty, laser; for glaucoma (includes reading of gonioscopy results).
In Plain Language
using laser to open drainage channel of eye; laser treatment to lower eye pressure
Clinical Context
Laser treatment of trabecular meshwork to improve aqueous outflow. First-line laser therapy for many glaucoma patients. Can be repeated.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.93 |
| Total RVU | 2.93 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.93, this code ranks in the 20th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 65855?
CPT 65855 (Trabeculoplasty laser surgical) is a Surgery code. Trabeculoplasty, laser; for glaucoma (includes reading of gonioscopy results).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 65855?
The work RVU for CPT 65855 is 2.93. This code is primarily used by glaucoma surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 65855 used?
Laser treatment of trabecular meshwork to improve aqueous outflow. First-line laser therapy for many glaucoma patients. Can be repeated.
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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.