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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH61.813

H61.813

Billable

Exostosis of external canal, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.813 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of exostosis of external canal, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Exostosis of the external auditory canal, commonly referred to as surfer's ear, is characterized by the formation of bony growths in the ear canal. These growths can lead to narrowing of the canal, resulting in symptoms such as hearing loss, recurrent ear infections, and discomfort. Bilateral exostosis indicates that these growths are present in both ears. The condition is often associated with prolonged exposure to cold water and wind, which can stimulate bone growth. Clinically, patients may present with conductive hearing loss, a sensation of fullness in the ear, and otorrhea. Diagnosis is typically made through otoscopic examination, which reveals the bony protrusions. In some cases, imaging studies may be utilized to assess the extent of the exostosis. Management may include monitoring for asymptomatic cases, while symptomatic patients may require surgical intervention to remove the exostosis and restore normal ear canal function. Post-operative care is crucial to prevent complications such as infection and to ensure proper healing.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires precise documentation of bilateral involvement.
  • Differentiation from other ear canal conditions.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding.
  • Need for clear clinical rationale for surgical intervention.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings.
  • Failure to document the bilateral nature of the condition.
  • Lack of clear justification for surgical procedures.
  • Misclassification of the condition as a simple ear infection.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with hearing loss, recurrent otitis externa, or post-surgical follow-ups.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the bilateral nature and any associated symptoms.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations and reports detailing hearing loss and its impact.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing hearing assessments due to suspected conductive hearing loss.

Billing Considerations

Document the relationship between exostosis and hearing impairment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.813 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding conditions of the ear
  • Ensure accurate documentation of bilateral involvement and any associated symptoms
  • Exostosis should be coded only when confirmed by clinical examination

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.813 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Excision of external ear canal exostosis

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for symptomatic exostosis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure clear documentation of the surgical necessity.

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 exostosis, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like exostosis, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like exostosis, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

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 symptoms of bilateral exostosis?

Common symptoms include hearing loss, a sensation of fullness in the ears, and recurrent ear infections. Patients may also experience discomfort during water exposure.