ICD-10-CM Billable Code

H11.061

Recurrent pterygium of right eye

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Recurrent pterygium of the right eye is a condition characterized by the growth of a benign, wing-shaped tissue on the conjunctiva, which is the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. When this growth keeps returning after treatment, it is classified as recurrent. This condition often affects the visual appearance and, in some cases, can interfere with vision. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help in managing the condition effectively.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun Chronic irritation or inflammation of the eye due to dust, wind, or environmental factors History of pterygium surgery that was not fully successful or resulted in recurrence Genetic predisposition in some individuals Prolonged exposure to wind or dry conditions that irritate the eye

Key Symptoms: A visible growth extending from the conjunctiva onto the cornea Redness and inflammation around the pterygium Foreign body sensation or feeling of grittiness in the eye Blurred or decreased vision if the growth extends over the pupil Eye irritation or soreness Cosmetic concerns due to visible tissue growth

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, where an eye care professional inspects the eye for abnormal tissue growth. They may use a slit-lamp microscope to assess the size and location of the pterygium. In some cases, additional imaging or measurements are taken to evaluate the impact on the cornea and visual acuity. A detailed medical history, including any previous eye surgeries or exposures to irritants, supports the diagnosis.

Treatment Protocols: Management of recurrent pterygium of the right eye involves several approaches, depending on the severity and impact on vision: - Conservative Measures: - Use of lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to reduce irritation - Sunglasses with UV protection to prevent further growth - Medical Treatments: - Anti-inflammatory eye drops to manage inflammation -topical medications prescribed by an eye specialist - Surgical Intervention: - Surgical removal of the pterygium is considered when it causes significant visual disturbance or cosmetic concern. - During surgery, measures may be taken to reduce recurrence, such as grafting conjunctival tissue and using adjunctive therapies like mitomycin C. Postoperative care often includes follow-up visits to monitor for recurrence and manage complications. Recurrent pterygium may require multiple treatments, as it tends to grow back even after surgery.

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is H11.061 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H11.061 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report H11.061?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Recurrent pterygium of right eye and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

Cite this Clinical Reference