68400 incision and drainage lacrimal gland
Also known as: lacrimal gland I&D, dacryoadenitis drainage
Incision and drainage of lacrimal gland for treatment of infection, abscess, or obstruction.
In Plain Language
draining tear gland abscess; opening infected tear gland
Clinical Context
Used for acute infection or obstruction of lacrimal gland. Common indications include acute dacryoadenitis, infected lacrimal gland cysts, or lacrimal gland abscess.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.70 |
| Total RVU | 1.70 |
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 1.70, this code ranks in the 11th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 68400?
CPT 68400 (incision and drainage lacrimal gland) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of lacrimal gland for treatment of infection, abscess, or obstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 68400?
The work RVU for CPT 68400 is 1.70. This code is primarily used by Ophthalmology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 68400 used?
Used for acute infection or obstruction of lacrimal gland. Common indications include acute dacryoadenitis, infected lacrimal gland cysts, or lacrimal gland abscess.
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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.