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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH61.321

H61.321

Billable

Acquired stenosis of right external ear canal secondary to inflammation and infection

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.321 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired stenosis of right external ear canal secondary to inflammation and infection.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired stenosis of the right external ear canal is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the ear canal due to inflammation and infection. This condition often arises from chronic otitis externa, which can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections, allergic reactions, or prolonged exposure to moisture. Patients may present with symptoms such as ear pain, discharge, hearing loss, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, including otoscopy, to assess the ear canal's condition and identify any underlying infections or inflammatory processes. Management may include the use of topical antibiotics or antifungals, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve the stenosis. The condition can lead to complications such as recurrent infections and hearing impairment if not adequately addressed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of ear anatomy and pathology
  • Differentiation from other ear canal conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of inflammation and infection
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the cause of stenosis
  • Failure to specify the side affected
  • Misclassification of the condition as congenital rather than acquired
  • Lack of supporting evidence for inflammation or infection

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic ear infections, pain, or hearing loss requiring intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the etiology of stenosis and any prior treatments.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history and physical examination notes, including any referrals to specialists.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of ear pain or discharge leading to a referral for further management.

Billing Considerations

Document any conservative management strategies attempted before referral.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.321 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, this code should be used when the stenosis is specifically acquired and linked to inflammation and infection
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the condition is not congenital

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.321 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69210CPT Code

Removal of impacted cerumen

Clinical Scenario

Often performed in conjunction with treatment for stenosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for cerumen removal and any associated conditions.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists may perform this procedure during an office visit.

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, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H61.321 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H61.321 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H61.321 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9.

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 acquired stenosis of the ear canal?

The primary cause is often chronic inflammation due to infections, allergic reactions, or trauma, leading to tissue edema and scarring.