Retained (old) magnetic foreign body in lens, bilateral

This code signifies the presence of an old, non-recent magnetic foreign body embedded within the lens of both eyes. This typically results from a penetrating ocular injury where a metallic object, often ferromagnetic, was not removed and has remained in the crystalline lens. The "old" designation implies the foreign body has been present for an extended period, potentially leading to chronic inflammation or cataract formation.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a "retained" or "old" magnetic foreign body is present in the lens of both eyes. This diagnosis is often made following a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, including slit-lamp biomicroscopy and potentially imaging studies like X-ray or MRI, confirming the nature and location of the foreign body.

• Ensure documentation specifies "magnetic" and "old" or "retained" to differentiate from acute or non-magnetic foreign bodies.
• Verify laterality; this code is specifically for bilateral involvement. If only one eye is affected, use the appropriate unilateral code (H44.631 or H44.632).
• Code any associated complications, such as traumatic cataract (H26.1-), separately.