Type 2 diab with severe nonp rtnop without mclr edema, l eye

This code signifies a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated by severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy affecting the left eye, specifically without the presence of macular edema. This stage of retinopathy is characterized by widespread microaneurysms, hemorrhages, venous beading, and intraretinal microvascular abnormalities (IRMAs), indicating significant retinal damage but not yet progressing to new vessel formation.

Use this code when documentation clearly states Type 2 diabetes and severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy is present in the patient's left eye, and the ophthalmologist or optometrist explicitly notes the absence of macular edema. This code is appropriate for patients undergoing routine diabetic eye exams or presenting with visual symptoms related to this specific stage of retinopathy.

• Always confirm the laterality (left eye) and the absence of macular edema from the ophthalmology report.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "severe" nonproliferative retinopathy; differentiate from mild or moderate stages.
• Sequence this code after the primary diabetes code (E11.-) if the retinopathy is a manifestation of the diabetes.