CPT 68500
Removal of tear gland
CPT 68500 at a glance
- Code
- 68500
- Code type
- CPT/HCPCS
- Short descriptor
- Removal of tear gland
- Category
- ASC Surgical
- ASC payment status
- Payable in an ASC (surgical)
- CMS addendum
- AA (Surgical)
- Typical setting
- Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24) or hospital outpatient department (POS 22).
What is CPT code 68500?
CPT 68500 is a CPT/HCPCS procedure code. Its official CMS short descriptor is "Removal of tear gland". In the ASC context it is grouped under ASC Surgical.
Is CPT 68500 payable in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC)?
CPT 68500 appears on Medicare's ASC Covered Procedures List (CMS Addendum AA), so Medicare reimburses it when the surgery is performed in a certified ambulatory surgery center.
Where is CPT 68500 typically performed?
Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24) or hospital outpatient department (POS 22).
Which specialties use CPT 68500?
CPT 68500 is most associated with Ophthalmology.
Reference information compiled from the CMS April 2026 ASC payment addenda (AA, BB, EE). Codes, descriptors, and ASC payment status change with each CMS update. This is a coding reference, not billing, coding, or legal advice. Always verify against the current CMS addenda and individual payer policy before billing. CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.