Horseshoe tear of retina without detachment, unspecified eye

This code signifies a horseshoe-shaped retinal tear that has not progressed to a retinal detachment. This type of tear is a full-thickness break in the retina, often occurring at the vitreous base, and is considered a significant risk factor for future retinal detachment.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a "horseshoe tear" or "flap tear" of the retina without any evidence of associated detachment. This is typically diagnosed during a dilated fundus examination or optical coherence tomography (OCT).

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "without detachment" to differentiate from codes for retinal detachment.
• Do not use this code if the tear is described as an operculated tear or atrophic hole; use more specific codes for those conditions.
• This code is for an unspecified eye; if the laterality (right or left eye) is documented, use the more specific H33.311 or H33.312.