66500 Incision of iris
Also known as: laser iridotomy, PI, peripheral iridotomy
Iridotomy/iridectomy by laser surgery (e.g., for glaucoma, prior to refractive surgery).
In Plain Language
using laser to make hole in iris; laser surgery to open iris and improve drainage
Clinical Context
Laser iridotomy for angle-closure glaucoma, pupillary block, or pre-refractive surgery. Safe, effective first-line therapy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.73 |
| Total RVU | 3.73 |
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 3.73, this code ranks in the 26th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 66500?
CPT 66500 (Incision of iris) is a Surgery code. Iridotomy/iridectomy by laser surgery (e.g., for glaucoma, prior to refractive surgery).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 66500?
The work RVU for CPT 66500 is 3.73. This code is primarily used by glaucoma surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 66500 used?
Laser iridotomy for angle-closure glaucoma, pupillary block, or pre-refractive surgery. Safe, effective first-line therapy.
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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.