H11.233 Symblepharon, bilateral

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- **Symblepharon, bilateral**
- Also known as conjunctival adhesion.

#### Summary
Symblepharon occurs when there is an adhesion between the palpebral conjunctiva (the inner lining of the eyelid) and the bulbar conjunctiva (the covering of the eyeball). In its bilateral form, this condition affects both eyes, potentially leading to restricted eye movement and discomfort.

#### Causes
Symblepharon can result from:
- Trauma to the eye or eyelid.
- Inflammatory diseases such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or cicatricial pemphigoid.
- Chemical burns or severe conjunctivitis in the eye.

#### Risk Factors
- History of eye injuries or surgeries.
- Presence of autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.
- Exposure to corrosive substances.

#### Symptoms
- Redness and irritation in the eyes.
- Restricted eye movement or difficulty opening the eyelids.
- Discomfort or pain in the eyes.

#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination of the eyes.
- Slit-lamp examination to assess the extent of conjunctival adhesion.

#### Treatment Options
- Surgical intervention to release the adhesion and improve eye movement.
- Use of lubricating eye drops to reduce symptoms.
- In some cases, amniotic membrane transplantation to promote healing.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With appropriate treatment, many patients experience significant improvement.
- Ongoing follow-up with an ophthalmologist is crucial to monitor for recurrence.

#### Complications
- Untreated symblepharon can lead to chronic irritation and progressive restriction of eye movement.
- Severe cases may result in vision impairment.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Protect the eyes from potential injuries and exposure to corrosive substances.
- Manage underlying inflammatory conditions effectively.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- If you experience symptoms such as persistent eye redness, discomfort, or limited eye movement, seek medical advice promptly.

#### Additional Resources
- [American Academy of Ophthalmology](https://www.aao.org/)
- [Cornea Research Foundation of America](https://cornearesearchfoundation.org/)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure bilateral involvement is correctly noted with ICD code **H11.233**.
- Verify any related underlying conditions for accurate coding of comorbidities.
- Be cautious of coding errors related to distinguishing unilateral from bilateral cases.

Similar Codes