Fusion with defective stereopsis

This code describes a binocular vision disorder where the eyes are able to fuse images, but the patient experiences impaired or absent stereoscopic depth perception. It indicates a defect in the brain's ability to process the slightly different images from each eye into a single, three-dimensional perception.

Use this code when documentation specifies a diagnosis of fusion with defective stereopsis, often identified during an ophthalmological or optometric examination. This condition may be associated with strabismus, amblyopia, or other binocular vision anomalies. Documentation should clearly state the presence of fusion but with a noted deficiency in stereopsis.

• Do not confuse with codes for absence of fusion (e.g., H53.30, H53.31). This code specifically indicates defective stereopsis despite fusion.
• Always code any underlying or associated conditions, such as strabismus (H49.-, H50.-) or amblyopia (H53.0-), in addition to this code.
• Ensure the provider's documentation explicitly states "defective stereopsis" or similar language indicating impaired depth perception with intact fusion.