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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH61.891

H61.891

Billable

Other specified disorders of right external ear

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.891 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified disorders of right external ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

H61.891 refers to various specified disorders affecting the right external ear that do not fall under more common classifications. Conditions may include external ear infections, dermatitis, or other localized issues that impact the ear's structure and function. Clinical presentations can vary widely, from mild discomfort and itching to severe pain and swelling. Diagnostic criteria typically involve a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and possibly imaging studies to rule out other conditions. Management may include topical treatments, antibiotics for infections, or surgical interventions in cases of significant structural abnormalities or persistent infections. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms
  • Differentiation from similar codes
  • Potential for multiple diagnoses

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the right ear
  • Misuse of related codes
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on ear examination findings, treatment plans, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain, discharge, or hearing loss.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the right ear's condition to avoid coding errors.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive notes on skin conditions affecting the ear, including treatment responses.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with dermatitis or infections localized to the external ear.

Billing Considerations

Document the specific nature of the skin condition and its impact on ear function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.891 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include specific details about the right ear's condition and any relevant treatments

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.891 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69210CPT Code

Removal of impacted cerumen

Clinical Scenario

When a patient presents with cerumen impaction in the right ear.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for cerumen removal and any associated symptoms.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on clinical findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment documentation. H61.891 provides a more detailed classification for conditions affecting the right external ear.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment documentation. H61.891 provides a more detailed classification for conditions affecting the right external ear.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment documentation. H61.891 provides a more detailed classification for conditions affecting the right external ear.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions are included under H61.891?

H61.891 includes various specified disorders of the right external ear, such as infections, dermatitis, and other localized issues that do not fit into more common classifications.