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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH68.021

H68.021

Billable

Chronic Eustachian salpingitis, right ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H68.021 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic eustachian salpingitis, right ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic Eustachian salpingitis refers to the inflammation of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx, specifically affecting the right ear. This condition is characterized by persistent symptoms such as ear fullness, discomfort, and potential hearing loss due to the dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, which can lead to negative pressure in the middle ear and fluid accumulation. Chronic Eustachian salpingitis may result from recurrent upper respiratory infections, allergies, or anatomical abnormalities. Clinically, patients may present with a history of recurrent otitis media, nasal congestion, and a sensation of ear blockage. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, including otoscopic examination, tympanometry, and audiometric testing to assess hearing function. Management may involve medical therapies such as nasal corticosteroids, decongestants, or antihistamines, and in some cases, surgical interventions like tympanostomy tube placement may be indicated to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic conditions
  • Understanding the anatomical implications of Eustachian tube dysfunction
  • Potential overlap with other ear conditions like otitis media
  • Need for detailed documentation of symptoms and treatment plans

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of chronicity
  • Failure to specify laterality (right vs. left)
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for diagnosis
  • 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, hearing loss, or Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Billing Considerations

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

Allergy and Immunology

Documentation Requirements

Allergy testing results, treatment plans for allergic rhinitis, and their impact on Eustachian tube function.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic nasal congestion and Eustachian tube dysfunction related to allergies.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the relationship between allergic conditions and Eustachian tube dysfunction is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H68.021 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's chronicity and laterality
  • Include relevant clinical findings and treatment plans to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H68.021 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69436CPT Code

Tympanostomy, bilateral

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with chronic Eustachian salpingitis requiring drainage.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for surgery, pre-operative evaluation, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that the surgical necessity is well-documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H68.021 provides a clear distinction for chronic conditions, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H68.021 provides a clear distinction for chronic conditions, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H68.021 provides a clear distinction for chronic conditions, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

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 Eustachian salpingitis?

Common symptoms include ear fullness, discomfort, hearing loss, and a sensation of pressure in the ear, often exacerbated by upper respiratory infections or allergies.