Operating microscope

Applies to:

All plans

Definition

Use of an operating microscope during microsurgery provides magnification to improve sight into the anatomy present leading to better outcomes for the patient.

Operating microscope billing

Payable:

• When microsurgical techniques require the use of an operating microscope during a surgical session
• When this service is NOT considered a bundled component
• By using CPT code 69990 in addition to the primary CPT code for the surgery
• When microsurgical techniques and microdissection are documented in the operative notes

Not payable:

• To report an operating microscope that was used solely to view the visual field