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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH61.311

H61.311

Billable

Acquired stenosis of right external ear canal secondary to trauma

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.311 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired stenosis of right external ear canal secondary to trauma.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired stenosis of the external ear canal refers to a narrowing of the ear canal that occurs due to external factors, such as trauma. This condition can result from various types of injuries, including lacerations, blunt force trauma, or thermal injuries. The right external ear canal is specifically affected in this code, indicating a unilateral condition. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as hearing loss, ear pain, or a sensation of fullness in the ear. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough otoscopic examination, which may reveal narrowing of the canal, inflammation, or scarring. Imaging studies, such as CT scans, may be utilized in complex cases to assess the extent of the stenosis and any associated injuries. Management often includes conservative measures like ear canal dilation or surgical interventions, such as canaloplasty or tympanoplasty, depending on the severity of the stenosis and the underlying cause. Follow-up care is essential to monitor for complications, including recurrent stenosis or infection.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of the code for unilateral ear canal stenosis
  • Need for detailed documentation of trauma history
  • Potential for associated conditions (e.g., hearing loss)
  • Variability in treatment approaches (surgical vs. conservative)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the trauma mechanism
  • Failure to document associated symptoms like hearing loss
  • Misclassification of the condition as congenital
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-treatment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of trauma, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain and hearing loss following trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the trauma type and any surgical interventions performed.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations and reports on hearing loss related to ear canal stenosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing hearing assessments post-trauma.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of stenosis on auditory function and any rehabilitative measures taken.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.311 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, this code should be used when the stenosis is specifically acquired due to trauma
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the cause and any associated symptoms
  • traumatic causes

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.311 When
  • Exclusion criteria include congenital stenosis or stenosis due to non

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Canaloplasty

Clinical Scenario

Performed to correct acquired stenosis of the ear canal.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngology specialists should ensure accurate coding of the procedure in relation to 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 conditions like acquired stenosis of the ear canal, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like acquired stenosis of the ear canal, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like acquired stenosis of the ear canal, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of H61.311?

H61.311 is primarily caused by trauma to the ear canal, which can lead to scarring and narrowing of the canal.

How is H61.311 diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through clinical examination, typically using otoscopy, and may be supported by audiometric testing to assess hearing loss.

What treatments are available for H61.311?

Treatment options include conservative measures like ear canal dilation and surgical interventions such as canaloplasty, depending on the severity of the stenosis.