68850 Injection for tear sacral x-ray
Also known as: lacrimal imaging, dacryocystography contrast injection
Injection of contrast medium into lacrimal sac for lacrimal imaging (dacryocystography) for diagnostic evaluation.
In Plain Language
injecting dye into tear duct for X-ray; tear duct imaging contrast
Clinical Context
Used for diagnostic imaging of lacrimal system. Common indications include evaluation of nasolacrimal duct obstruction, fistula, or dacryocystitis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.78 |
| Total RVU | 0.78 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.78, this code ranks in the 3rd percentile among Surgery codes — 10.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 68850?
CPT 68850 (Injection for tear sacral x-ray) is a Surgery code. Injection of contrast medium into lacrimal sac for lacrimal imaging (dacryocystography) for diagnostic evaluation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 68850?
The work RVU for CPT 68850 is 0.78. This code is primarily used by Ophthalmology.
When is CPT 68850 used?
Used for diagnostic imaging of lacrimal system. Common indications include evaluation of nasolacrimal duct obstruction, fistula, or dacryocystitis.
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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.