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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH61.92

H61.92

Billable

Disorder of left external ear, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.92 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of disorder of left external ear, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The ICD-10 code H61.92 refers to unspecified disorders of the left external ear, which can encompass a variety of conditions affecting the outer ear structure, including but not limited to infections, trauma, congenital anomalies, and inflammatory conditions. Clinical presentations may vary widely, from mild discomfort and itching to severe pain and discharge, depending on the underlying etiology. Common disorders include otitis externa (inflammation of the ear canal), cerumen impaction, and trauma-related injuries. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, including otoscopic evaluation, and may require imaging studies in cases of suspected foreign bodies or complex anatomical issues. Management strategies can range from conservative measures, such as ear cleaning and topical medications, to surgical interventions for more severe cases. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the patient's condition, especially when multiple ear disorders are present.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of symptoms
  • Potential overlap with other ear-related diagnoses
  • Need for precise documentation to support the diagnosis
  • Variability in treatment approaches and management strategies

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the nature of the disorder
  • Inconsistent coding with treatment provided
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history, examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation supports the diagnosis and reflects the complexity of the condition.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history and physical examination notes, including any referrals made.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of ear complaints before referral to specialists.

Billing Considerations

Document any prior treatments or interventions to support the diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.92 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, H61
  • 92 should be used when the specific nature of the disorder is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and that any relevant symptoms are noted

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.92 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 diagnosed during the visit.

Documentation Requirements

Document the procedure performed and the indication 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 specificity in coding ear disorders, improving the ability to capture the complexity of conditions affecting the external ear. H61.92 provides a means to code for unspecified disorders, but coders should strive for more specific codes when possible.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specificity in coding ear disorders, improving the ability to capture the complexity of conditions affecting the external ear. H61.92 provides a means to code for unspecified disorders, but coders should strive for more specific codes when possible.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specificity in coding ear disorders, improving the ability to capture the complexity of conditions affecting the external ear. H61.92 provides a means to code for unspecified disorders, but coders should strive for more specific codes when possible.

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 H61.92?

Use H61.92 when the specific disorder of the left external ear is not documented, but the patient presents with symptoms related to the external ear.