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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH71.12

H71.12

Billable

Cholesteatoma of tympanum, left ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H71.12 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cholesteatoma of tympanum, left 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 typically arises from chronic otitis media, where repeated infections lead to the accumulation of skin debris and the formation of a cystic lesion. Patients may present with symptoms such as hearing loss, ear discharge, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. The condition can lead to complications, including erosion of surrounding structures, such as the ossicles and mastoid bone, potentially resulting in more severe hearing loss or even intracranial complications. Diagnosis is primarily made through otoscopic examination, which may reveal a retracted tympanic membrane or a visible cholesteatoma. Imaging studies, such as CT scans, may be utilized to assess the extent of the disease and plan surgical intervention. Management typically involves surgical removal of the cholesteatoma to prevent further complications and restore hearing, often necessitating tympanoplasty or mastoidectomy procedures.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other ear conditions such as otitis media or tympanic membrane perforation.
  • Need for precise documentation of the extent of the cholesteatoma.
  • Potential for associated complications that may require additional coding.
  • Variability in clinical presentation and management approaches.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings.
  • Failure to document prior treatments or interventions.
  • Misidentification of the ear side (left vs. right).
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history of ear infections, audiometric evaluations, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the extent of cholesteatoma and any surgical interventions performed.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric test results and assessments of hearing loss related to cholesteatoma.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing hearing evaluations pre- and post-surgery for cholesteatoma.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of cholesteatoma on hearing and any recommendations for hearing aids or rehabilitation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H71.12 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, including the side of the ear affected
  • Include any relevant history of chronic otitis media or previous surgeries

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H71.12 When
  • Ensure compliance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria for cholesteatoma coding

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanoplasty with mastoidectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical intervention in cases of cholesteatoma.

Documentation Requirements

Document the extent of the cholesteatoma and any ossicular reconstruction performed.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must ensure detailed operative notes are provided.

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, including cholesteatoma, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and facilitates better tracking of treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, including cholesteatoma, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and facilitates better tracking of treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, including cholesteatoma, which enhances the accuracy of patient records and facilitates better tracking of treatment outcomes.

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 discharge, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and sometimes pain. In advanced cases, dizziness or balance issues may occur.

How is cholesteatoma diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of patient history, otoscopic examination, and imaging studies such as CT scans to assess the extent of the disease.

What is the treatment for cholesteatoma?

The primary treatment for cholesteatoma is surgical removal. This may involve tympanoplasty or mastoidectomy, depending on the extent of the disease.