68811 Probe nasolacrimal duct
Also known as: probing with irrigation, duct probing with agent
Probing of nasolacrimal duct with application of mechanical or chemical agents to clear obstruction.
In Plain Language
clearing tear duct with probe and fluid; opening tear duct with assistance
Clinical Context
Used for nasolacrimal duct obstruction requiring adjunctive treatment. Common indications include resistant obstruction or partial blockage.
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 68811?
CPT 68811 (Probe nasolacrimal duct) is a Surgery code. Probing of nasolacrimal duct with application of mechanical or chemical agents to clear obstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 68811?
The work RVU for CPT 68811 is 1.70. This code is primarily used by Ophthalmology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 68811 used?
Used for nasolacrimal duct obstruction requiring adjunctive treatment. Common indications include resistant obstruction or partial 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.