Keratopathy (bullous aphakic) fol cataract surgery, unsp eye

This code describes a specific type of corneal disease characterized by bullae (blisters) on the cornea, occurring as a complication after cataract removal surgery. This condition is known as aphakic bullous keratopathy, indicating the absence of the natural lens (aphakia) and corneal swelling. It results in impaired vision and ocular discomfort.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a patient has developed bullous keratopathy specifically attributed to a prior cataract extraction, and the affected eye is not specified. This diagnosis is typically made by an ophthalmologist based on slit-lamp examination findings and the patient's surgical history.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the keratopathy to a previous cataract surgery.
• Avoid using this code if the laterality (right or left eye) is documented; instead, use the more specific H59.011 or H59.012.
• Do not confuse with pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (H59.02-), which occurs when an intraocular lens is present.