68420 incision and drainage lacrimal sacral
Also known as: dacryocystostomy drainage, lacrimal sac I&D
Incision and drainage of lacrimal sac for treatment of dacryocystitis or nasolacrimal duct obstruction.
In Plain Language
draining tear sac abscess; opening tear drainage system
Clinical Context
Used for acute infection of lacrimal sac or chronic obstruction. Common indications include acute or chronic dacryocystitis, lacrimal sac abscess, or nasolacrimal duct blockage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.29 |
| Total RVU | 2.29 |
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 2.29, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 68420?
CPT 68420 (incision and drainage lacrimal sacral) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of lacrimal sac for treatment of dacryocystitis or nasolacrimal duct obstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 68420?
The work RVU for CPT 68420 is 2.29. This code is primarily used by Ophthalmology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 68420 used?
Used for acute infection of lacrimal sac or chronic obstruction. Common indications include acute or chronic dacryocystitis, lacrimal sac abscess, or nasolacrimal duct blockage.
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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.