ICD-10 Code H18.333 – Rupture in Descemet’s membrane, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H18.333 – Rupture in Descemet’s membrane, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies a bilateral tear or break in Descemet’s membrane, the thin inner layer of the cornea. It indicates both eyes are involved, usually from trauma or another corneal injury.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include corneal edema, reduced vision, and a visible corneal break on eye examination, with bilateral involvement noted in the record.
When to use this code
Use H18.333 when the provider documents rupture of Descemet’s membrane in both eyes. Code it for a confirmed diagnosis, not for suspected injury or a general corneal abrasion. If the note does not clearly state bilateral involvement, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral rupture, unspecified corneal injury, or other corneal disorders without Descemet’s membrane rupture. Check documentation if the record only mentions trauma or corneal edema.
Coding tip
Verify that the documentation names Descemet’s membrane and states bilateral eye involvement before assigning H18.333.