Staphyloma posticum, left eye

This code describes a posterior staphyloma affecting the left eye. A posterior staphyloma is an outpouching or thinning of the sclera and choroid, typically occurring at the posterior pole of the eye, often associated with high myopia. This localized ectasia can lead to visual field defects and other complications.

Use this code when documentation specifically identifies a staphyloma located at the posterior aspect of the globe in the left eye. This diagnosis is often made during ophthalmoscopic examination or imaging studies such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or B-scan ultrasonography. Documentation should clearly state "staphyloma posticum" and specify the left eye.

• Ensure the laterality is correctly identified as left eye; separate codes exist for the right and bilateral eyes.
• Distinguish from other forms of staphyloma (e.g., anterior, equatorial) which have different code assignments.
• Code any associated underlying conditions, such as high myopia (H44.2x), as additional diagnoses.