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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH66.1

H66.1

Billable

Chronic tubotympanic suppurative otitis media

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H66.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic tubotympanic suppurative otitis media.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic tubotympanic suppurative otitis media is a persistent inflammatory condition of the middle ear characterized by the presence of pus and a perforated tympanic membrane. This condition often arises from recurrent acute otitis media or Eustachian tube dysfunction, leading to chronic inflammation and infection. Patients typically present with symptoms such as ear pain, hearing loss, and discharge from the ear, which may be foul-smelling. The condition can lead to complications such as hearing impairment, tympanosclerosis, or even cholesteatoma if left untreated. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by otoscopic examination revealing a perforated tympanic membrane and purulent discharge. Audiometric testing may be performed to assess the degree of hearing loss. Management often involves medical treatment with antibiotics and topical ear drops, but surgical intervention, such as tympanoplasty or myringotomy, may be necessary for persistent cases or to restore hearing. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor for complications and ensure resolution of the infection.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic forms of otitis media
  • Identifying the presence of perforation and discharge
  • Understanding the implications of associated hearing loss
  • Navigating the need for surgical intervention versus medical management

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of chronicity
  • Failure to document the presence of perforation
  • Lack of clarity on the treatment plan
  • Misclassification of acute versus chronic conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with recurrent ear infections, chronic ear discharge, or hearing loss.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the chronic nature and any surgical interventions performed.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

History of recurrent otitis media, developmental assessments related to hearing.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children with frequent ear infections and associated developmental delays.

Billing Considerations

Documenting family history and environmental factors that may contribute to recurrent infections.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H66.1 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for otitis media, ensuring accurate documentation of the chronic nature and any associated complications
  • Include details on the presence of perforation and discharge

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H66.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanoplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with chronic suppurative otitis media requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery, findings during the procedure, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must ensure detailed operative notes are available.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like H66.1, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like H66.1, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of chronic tubotympanic suppurative otitis media?

Common symptoms include persistent ear pain, discharge from the ear, and hearing loss. Patients may also experience a feeling of fullness in the ear.

How is chronic tubotympanic suppurative otitis media diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through a clinical examination, otoscopic findings of a perforated tympanic membrane, and audiometric testing to assess hearing loss.

What treatment options are available for chronic tubotympanic suppurative otitis media?

Treatment may include antibiotics, topical ear drops, and surgical options such as tympanoplasty or myringotomy for persistent cases.