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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH72.12

H72.12

Billable

Attic perforation of tympanic membrane, left ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H72.12 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of attic perforation of tympanic membrane, left ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Attic perforation of the tympanic membrane, specifically in the left ear, refers to a defect or hole in the upper part of the eardrum, which can result from chronic otitis media, trauma, or other pathological processes. This condition is often associated with cholesteatoma, a destructive and expanding growth of skin cells in the middle ear and/or mastoid process. Patients may present with symptoms such as hearing loss, ear discharge, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. The perforation can lead to complications, including recurrent infections and further hearing impairment. Diagnosis typically involves otoscopic examination, audiometry, and sometimes imaging studies to assess the extent of the damage and rule out associated conditions. Management may include medical treatment for infections, surgical intervention to repair the tympanic membrane, and addressing any underlying issues such as cholesteatoma. The prognosis varies based on the severity of the perforation and the presence of complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of tympanic membrane perforations
  • Identifying associated conditions like cholesteatoma
  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Need for precise documentation of ear examinations

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the side of the perforation
  • Misclassification of the type of perforation
  • Lack of supporting evidence for associated conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed otoscopic findings, audiometric results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of chronic otitis media, tympanoplasty procedures, and cholesteatoma removal.

Billing Considerations

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

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive audiometric evaluations and reports on hearing loss.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of hearing loss related to tympanic membrane perforations.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of the perforation on hearing thresholds and any recommendations for further intervention.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H72.12 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding ear conditions, ensuring specificity in documentation
  • Include any relevant history of otitis media or other ear diseases
  • Ensure that the code reflects the current clinical status of the patient

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H72.12 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanoplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical repair of the tympanic membrane is performed.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery and findings during the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that the surgical report clearly states the type of perforation and any associated findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding ear conditions, including attic perforation. This has improved the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively, leading to better patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding ear conditions, including attic perforation. This has improved the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively, leading to better patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding ear conditions, including attic perforation. This has improved the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively, leading to better patient 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 causes of attic perforation?

Common causes include chronic otitis media, trauma, and cholesteatoma. Chronic inflammation can lead to the breakdown of the tympanic membrane, resulting in perforation.