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 CodesH71.02

H71.02

Billable

Cholesteatoma of attic, left ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H71.02 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cholesteatoma of attic, left ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Cholesteatoma of the attic in the left ear is a destructive and expanding growth of skin cells in the middle ear and/or mastoid process. It often arises from chronic otitis media or eustachian tube dysfunction, leading to the accumulation of skin debris and infection. Patients may present with symptoms such as hearing loss, ear fullness, tinnitus, and sometimes discharge from the ear. The condition can lead to complications, including erosion of surrounding structures, mastoiditis, and even intracranial infections if left untreated. Diagnosis is typically made through otoscopic examination, imaging studies like CT scans, and audiometric testing to assess hearing loss. Management often involves surgical intervention to remove the cholesteatoma and reconstruct the tympanic membrane, with follow-up care to monitor for recurrence. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and tracking of treatment outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of ear anatomy and pathology
  • Differentiation from other types of ear conditions
  • Potential for multiple surgical interventions
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and findings

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to document the surgical procedure performed
  • Misclassification of the ear affected
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, audiometric results, imaging studies, and surgical notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic ear infections, hearing loss, or post-operative follow-ups.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the extent of cholesteatoma and any complications.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations, patient history regarding hearing loss, and any referrals for surgical intervention.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of hearing loss in patients with known cholesteatoma.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of cholesteatoma on hearing and any recommendations for management.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H71.02 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics, including laterality and any associated complications
  • Include relevant clinical findings and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H71.02 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanomastoid surgery

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical intervention in cholesteatoma cases.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must ensure comprehensive documentation of the surgical approach.

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. H71.02 provides specificity regarding the location and nature of the cholesteatoma, which is crucial for appropriate management and reimbursement.

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. H71.02 provides specificity regarding the location and nature of the cholesteatoma, which is crucial for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 cholesteatoma?

Common symptoms include hearing loss, ear fullness, tinnitus, and discharge from the ear. Patients may also experience pain or pressure in the affected ear.