CPT 68840
Explore/irrigate tear ducts
CPT 68840 at a glance
- Code
- 68840
- Code type
- CPT/HCPCS
- Short descriptor
- Explore/irrigate tear ducts
- Category
- ASC Surgical
- ASC payment status
- Payable in an ASC (surgical)
- CMS addendum
- AA (Surgical)
- Typical setting
- Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24); also commonly performed in an office or clinic (POS 11).
What is CPT code 68840?
CPT 68840 is a CPT/HCPCS procedure code. Its official CMS short descriptor is "Explore/irrigate tear ducts". In the ASC context it is grouped under ASC Surgical.
Is CPT 68840 payable in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC)?
CPT 68840 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 68840 typically performed?
Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24); also commonly performed in an office or clinic (POS 11).
Which specialties use CPT 68840?
CPT 68840 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.