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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH70.093

H70.093

Billable

Acute mastoiditis with other complications, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H70.093 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute mastoiditis with other complications, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid process, typically resulting from an untreated or inadequately treated acute otitis media. This condition can lead to significant complications, particularly when bilateral, as it may affect both ears simultaneously. Clinical presentation often includes fever, ear pain, swelling behind the ear, and possible drainage from the ear canal. Patients may also exhibit signs of systemic infection. Diagnostic criteria typically involve clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as CT scans to assess the extent of mastoid involvement, and possibly cultures of ear discharge. Management may include antibiotics, surgical intervention such as mastoidectomy, and close monitoring for complications like hearing loss or vestibular dysfunction. The bilateral nature of the condition complicates treatment and increases the risk of systemic involvement, necessitating a comprehensive approach to care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Bilateral involvement complicates diagnosis and treatment.
  • Potential for multiple complications requiring detailed documentation.
  • Differentiation from other ear conditions can be challenging.
  • Requires coordination between multiple specialties for management.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of complications.
  • Failure to specify bilateral involvement.
  • Misdiagnosis or coding of similar conditions.
  • Lack of supporting imaging or lab results.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain, fever, and swelling behind the ear.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all complications are documented to support the complexity of the diagnosis.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Thorough history and physical examination, including developmental milestones.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children with recurrent ear infections leading to mastoiditis.

Billing Considerations

Consider age-related factors in treatment and documentation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H70.093 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of bilateral involvement and any complications
  • Include relevant clinical findings and treatment details to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H70.093 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69436CPT Code

Mastoidectomy, simple

Clinical Scenario

Performed in cases of acute mastoiditis with complications.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngology specialists must document the necessity for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like acute mastoiditis, 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 conditions like acute mastoiditis, 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 complications associated with acute mastoiditis?

Common complications include hearing loss, intracranial infections, and vestibular disorders. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to minimize these risks.