68520 Removal of tear sacral
Also known as: dacryocystectomy, lacrimal sac removal
Complete removal of lacrimal sac including associated tissue (dacryocystectomy).
In Plain Language
removing tear sac; complete tear sac removal
Clinical Context
Used for removal of lacrimal sac due to chronic infection, malignancy, or obstruction. Common indications include recurrent dacryocystitis, lacrimal sac carcinoma, or failed dacryocystorhinostomy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.56 |
| Total RVU | 8.56 |
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 8.56, this code ranks in the 52nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 68520?
CPT 68520 (Removal of tear sacral) is a Surgery code. Complete removal of lacrimal sac including associated tissue (dacryocystectomy).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 68520?
The work RVU for CPT 68520 is 8.56. This code is primarily used by Ophthalmology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 68520 used?
Used for removal of lacrimal sac due to chronic infection, malignancy, or obstruction. Common indications include recurrent dacryocystitis, lacrimal sac carcinoma, or failed dacryocystorhinostomy.
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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.