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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH71.91

H71.91

Billable

Unspecified cholesteatoma, right ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H71.91 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified cholesteatoma, right ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Cholesteatoma is an abnormal skin growth that can develop in the middle ear and mastoid process, often as a result of chronic ear infections. It typically arises when skin cells and other debris accumulate in the ear, leading to the formation of a cyst-like sac. This condition can cause significant complications, including hearing loss, recurrent infections, and damage to surrounding structures. In the case of unspecified cholesteatoma of the right ear, the diagnosis does not specify the type or extent of the cholesteatoma, which can complicate treatment decisions. Patients may present with symptoms such as ear discharge, hearing impairment, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. Diagnosis is primarily made through clinical examination and imaging studies, such as CT scans, which help assess the extent of the cholesteatoma and any associated complications. Management often involves surgical intervention to remove the cholesteatoma and repair any damage to the ear structures. Postoperative care is crucial to monitor for recurrence and manage any complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of cholesteatoma.
  • Need for precise documentation of ear anatomy and pathology.
  • Potential for associated conditions, such as otitis media or hearing loss.
  • Variability in surgical interventions and their documentation.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the clinical findings.
  • Failure to specify the type of cholesteatoma.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis.
  • Inconsistent coding of associated conditions.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic ear infections, hearing loss, or recurrent otorrhea.

Billing Considerations

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

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations and reports detailing the degree of hearing loss.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing hearing assessments post-cholesteatoma surgery.

Billing Considerations

Document the relationship between cholesteatoma and hearing impairment for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H71.91 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, H71
  • 91 should be used when the cholesteatoma is not specified as either acquired or congenital
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and imaging studies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H71.91 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanomastoid surgery

Clinical Scenario

Performed to remove cholesteatoma and repair the tympanic membrane.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must document the extent of the cholesteatoma and any complications.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cholesteatomas, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H71.91 provides a clear classification for unspecified cases, which aids in research and epidemiological studies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cholesteatomas, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H71.91 provides a clear classification for unspecified cases, which aids in research and epidemiological studies.

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 is the difference between unspecified and acquired cholesteatoma?

Unspecified cholesteatoma (H71.91) does not detail the type or cause, while acquired cholesteatoma (H71.93) indicates that it developed due to chronic ear conditions.