Aphakia, bilateral

This code signifies the absence of the natural crystalline lens in both eyes. This condition typically results from surgical removal of cataracts without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, or rarely, from congenital absence of the lens. Patients with aphakia experience significant hyperopia and require corrective lenses.

Use this code when documentation clearly states that both eyes are aphakic. This is commonly seen in patients post-cataract extraction where an IOL was not implanted, or in cases of congenital aphakia affecting both eyes. The physician's notes should explicitly mention the bilateral absence of the lens.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" aphakia; otherwise, laterality-specific codes should be used.
• Do not confuse with pseudophakia (presence of an artificial lens) or other lens disorders.
• This code is often a secondary diagnosis, following a procedure code for cataract extraction if applicable, or as a primary diagnosis for congenital aphakia.