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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH71.11

H71.11

Billable

Cholesteatoma of tympanum, right ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H71.11 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cholesteatoma of tympanum, right ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Cholesteatoma of the tympanum is a destructive and expanding growth of skin cells in the middle ear and/or mastoid process. It often arises as a complication of chronic otitis media, where repeated infections lead to the accumulation of skin cells and debris. Patients may present with symptoms such as ear discharge, hearing loss, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. The condition can lead to serious complications, including hearing loss, erosion of the surrounding bone, and potential spread of infection to adjacent structures. Diagnosis is typically made through otoscopic examination, which may reveal a retracted tympanic membrane or a visible cholesteatoma sac. Imaging studies, such as CT scans, may be utilized to assess the extent of the disease and involvement of the mastoid process. Management often involves surgical intervention to remove the cholesteatoma and reconstruct the tympanic membrane to restore hearing and prevent recurrence. Postoperative care and follow-up are crucial to monitor for complications and ensure proper healing.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of ear anatomy and pathology
  • Differentiation from other ear conditions like otitis media
  • Potential for surgical coding nuances
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and findings

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to document the surgical procedure performed
  • Misclassification of cholesteatoma severity
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on patient history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and surgical details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of any associated procedures, such as tympanoplasty or mastoidectomy.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations and reports detailing the degree of hearing loss.

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 hearing aids or rehabilitation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H71.11 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for ear diseases, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, treatment, and any associated conditions
  • Include details of the surgical procedure if applicable, and ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H71.11 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanoplasty with mastoidectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used during surgical intervention for cholesteatoma removal.

Documentation Requirements

Document the surgical approach, findings, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that the procedure is well-documented to support the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cholesteatoma, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also enhanced the ability to track outcomes and complications associated with this condition.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cholesteatoma, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also enhanced the ability to track outcomes and complications associated with this condition.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also enhanced the ability to track outcomes and complications associated with this condition.

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 ear discharge, hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Patients may also experience pain or pressure in the affected ear.

How is cholesteatoma diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through otoscopic examination, which may reveal a retracted tympanic membrane or a visible cholesteatoma sac. Imaging studies like CT scans may also be used.

What is the treatment for cholesteatoma?

The primary treatment for cholesteatoma is surgical intervention to remove the growth and reconstruct the tympanic membrane. Follow-up care is essential to monitor for recurrence.