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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH61.399

H61.399

Billable

Other acquired stenosis of external ear canal, unspecified ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.399 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other acquired stenosis of external ear canal, unspecified ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

H61.399 refers to acquired stenosis of the external ear canal that is not classified elsewhere. This condition can arise from various factors, including chronic otitis externa, trauma, or inflammatory processes that lead to narrowing of the ear canal. Patients may present with symptoms such as hearing loss, ear fullness, or recurrent infections. The stenosis can impede the normal drainage of cerumen and other debris, leading to further complications. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough otoscopic examination, where the narrowing of the canal can be visualized. Additional imaging studies may be warranted in complex cases to assess the extent of the stenosis and any associated pathology. Management may include medical treatment for underlying conditions, such as antibiotics for infections, or surgical interventions like canaloplasty or tympanoplasty to restore normal ear canal function. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and tracking of healthcare outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and underlying causes
  • Need for precise documentation of the stenosis type and cause
  • Differentiation from other ear canal conditions
  • Potential for co-existing ear conditions that complicate coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the cause of stenosis
  • Failure to specify the affected ear
  • Misclassification of stenosis type
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, physical examination findings, and any imaging studies performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic ear infections, hearing loss, or post-surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the stenosis type and any associated conditions to support the diagnosis.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations and reports detailing hearing loss and its correlation with ear canal conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing hearing assessments due to suspected ear canal obstruction.

Billing Considerations

Linking audiological findings to the diagnosis of stenosis for comprehensive care.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.399 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding and reporting, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include any relevant history of ear conditions that may have led to the stenosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.399 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69210CPT Code

Removal of impacted cerumen

Clinical Scenario

Used when cerumen impaction is present alongside stenosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the presence of cerumen impaction and the procedure performed.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on the clinical findings.

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 acquired stenosis, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, including acquired stenosis, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, including acquired stenosis, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

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 external ear canal?

Acquired stenosis can be caused by chronic infections, trauma, or inflammatory conditions affecting the ear canal.