ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH70.222

H70.222

Billable

Chronic petrositis, left ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H70.222 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic petrositis, left ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic petrositis is a persistent inflammatory condition affecting the petrous part of the temporal bone, specifically on the left side in this case. It is often a complication of chronic otitis media or other ear infections that can lead to the erosion of the bone and subsequent infection. Patients may present with symptoms such as persistent ear pain, hearing loss, and possibly vestibular dysfunction. The condition can also lead to complications such as meningitis or brain abscess if not managed appropriately. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT or MRI to visualize the extent of the inflammation and any associated complications. Management may include antibiotic therapy, surgical intervention to drain infected material, or tympanostomy to alleviate pressure. Chronic petrositis can significantly impact a patient's quality of life due to its association with chronic pain and hearing impairment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of ear anatomy and related conditions.
  • Differentiation from acute petrositis and other ear diseases.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding.
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and treatment.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of chronicity.
  • Failure to document associated symptoms.
  • Misclassification of acute vs. chronic conditions.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent ear infections, chronic pain, and hearing loss.

Billing Considerations

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

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Clear imaging reports indicating the presence of inflammation or infection.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Imaging studies requested for suspected chronic petrositis.

Billing Considerations

Radiologists should provide detailed descriptions of findings related to the petrous bone.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H70.222 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the chronic nature of the condition
  • Include any relevant imaging studies and treatment plans in the medical record

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H70.222 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69436CPT Code

Tympanostomy

Clinical Scenario

Performed in cases of chronic ear infections leading to chronic petrositis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery and any pre-operative assessments.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure clear documentation of the surgical necessity.

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 petrositis, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like petrositis, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like petrositis, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

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 petrositis?

Common symptoms include persistent ear pain, hearing loss, and dizziness. Patients may also experience drainage from the ear and recurrent infections.