Aqueous misdirection, bilateral

This code signifies aqueous misdirection syndrome affecting both eyes. This condition, also known as malignant glaucoma, occurs when aqueous humor is misdirected into the vitreous cavity, leading to anterior displacement of the iris-lens diaphragm and subsequent angle closure. It typically presents with elevated intraocular pressure despite a patent iridectomy.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates aqueous misdirection syndrome impacting both the right and left eyes. This diagnosis is often made post-surgically, particularly after glaucoma filtration surgery, or in patients with pre-existing angle-closure glaucoma. Supporting documentation should detail clinical findings such as shallow anterior chambers, elevated intraocular pressure, and a history consistent with aqueous misdirection.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "bilateral" or specifies involvement of both eyes. If only one eye is affected, use the appropriate unilateral code.
• Differentiate from other forms of secondary glaucoma; aqueous misdirection has a distinct pathophysiology involving posterior aqueous pooling.
• Consider sequencing this code after the primary condition or procedure that led to the aqueous misdirection, if applicable.