ICD-10 Code H59.81 – Chorioretinal Scars After Surgery for Detachment (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H59.81 – Chorioretinal scars after surgery for detachment
What it is
This code identifies chorioretinal scarring that develops after retinal detachment surgery. Use it for postoperative scar changes involving the choroid and retina, not for the detachment itself.
Clinical signs
Findings may include visible chorioretinal scar tissue on exam or imaging after prior detachment repair. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. The record should link the scar to the prior surgery.
When to use this code
Use H59.81 when the provider documents chorioretinal scarring as a postoperative result of retinal detachment surgery. It fits follow-up visits, postoperative assessments, or problem lists when the scar is the active documented finding. If the note only mentions a past detachment repair without scar documentation, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for an active retinal detachment or for generic postoperative eye findings without chorioretinal scar documentation. It is also not for scars from non-surgical causes unless the record clearly supports this code.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider explicitly connects the chorioretinal scar to prior detachment surgery before assigning H59.81.