68761 Close tear duct opening
Also known as: canalicular closure, canalicular obliteration
Closure or obliteration of lacrimal canaliculus using surgical technique to eliminate tear drainage opening.
In Plain Language
closing tear duct permanently; blocking tear drainage duct
Clinical Context
Used for permanent closure of tear drainage when needed. Common indications include severe dry eye unresponsive to punctal plugs, or permanent obliteration.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.37 |
| Total RVU | 1.37 |
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 1.37, this code ranks in the 8th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 68761?
CPT 68761 (Close tear duct opening) is a Surgery code. Closure or obliteration of lacrimal canaliculus using surgical technique to eliminate tear drainage opening.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 68761?
The work RVU for CPT 68761 is 1.37. This code is primarily used by Ophthalmology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 68761 used?
Used for permanent closure of tear drainage when needed. Common indications include severe dry eye unresponsive to punctal plugs, or permanent obliteration.
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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.