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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH61.91

H61.91

Billable

Disorder of right external ear, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.91 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of disorder of right external ear, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The code H61.91 refers to unspecified disorders of the right external ear, which can encompass a variety of conditions affecting the outer ear structure, including the auricle and external auditory canal. Common presentations may include ear pain, itching, discharge, or swelling. Conditions such as otitis externa (inflammation of the outer ear), cerumen impaction, and trauma can lead to this diagnosis. Patients may present with symptoms like hearing loss, discomfort, or visible abnormalities in the ear. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, including otoscopic evaluation, and may require imaging studies in complex cases. Management strategies vary based on the underlying cause and may include topical medications, ear cleaning, or surgical interventions in cases of severe infection or structural abnormalities. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment and reimbursement, necessitating detailed documentation of clinical findings and treatment plans.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Need for precise documentation to differentiate from other ear disorders
  • Potential overlap with other codes for ear conditions
  • Variations in treatment approaches based on underlying causes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of clinical findings
  • Use of unspecified codes without justification
  • Inconsistent coding across multiple encounters
  • Failure to document treatment plans and outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed examination findings, treatment plans, and follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of otitis externa, cerumen impaction, and trauma to the ear.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in documentation to support the diagnosis and treatment provided.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, symptom description, and initial treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of ear pain or discomfort, referral to specialists.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the rationale for referrals and any preliminary treatments administered.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.91 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines which state that unspecified codes should only be used when no more specific code is available
  • Ensure that documentation supports the use of H61
  • 91, including symptoms, examination findings, and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.91 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69210CPT Code

Removal of impacted cerumen

Clinical Scenario

Used when cerumen impaction is treated in conjunction with H61.91.

Documentation Requirements

Document the procedure performed and the reason for cerumen removal.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists may perform this procedure more frequently than primary care providers.

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, but it has also introduced the potential for increased scrutiny on unspecified codes like H61.91. Coders must ensure that documentation justifies the use of this code to avoid denials.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear disorders, but it has also introduced the potential for increased scrutiny on unspecified codes like H61.91. Coders must ensure that documentation justifies the use of this code to avoid denials.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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

When should I use H61.91?

Use H61.91 when a patient presents with symptoms related to the right external ear, but no specific diagnosis can be made. Ensure that documentation supports the use of this unspecified code.