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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH66.3

H66.3

Billable

Other chronic suppurative otitis media

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H66.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other chronic suppurative otitis media.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a persistent ear infection characterized by the presence of pus in the middle ear and/or mastoid cavity, often leading to perforation of the tympanic membrane. This condition can result from recurrent acute otitis media or may arise from other underlying conditions such as Eustachian tube dysfunction, allergies, or chronic sinusitis. Patients typically present with symptoms such as ear discharge, hearing loss, and sometimes pain or discomfort in the ear. The discharge may be foul-smelling and can vary in consistency. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by otoscopic examination revealing tympanic membrane perforation and purulent discharge. Audiometric testing may be performed to assess the degree of hearing loss. Management often involves medical treatment with antibiotics and topical ear drops, but surgical intervention, such as tympanoplasty or mastoidectomy, may be necessary in cases of persistent infection or significant hearing loss. Chronic suppurative otitis media can lead to complications, including cholesteatoma, mastoiditis, and, in severe cases, intracranial infections.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic forms of otitis media
  • Identifying the presence of complications such as cholesteatoma
  • Documenting the specific type of discharge and its characteristics
  • Understanding the relationship with other ear conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of chronicity
  • Failure to document the type and amount of discharge
  • Lack of clarity regarding associated hearing loss
  • Improper coding of related surgical procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear infections, audiometric results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent ear infections, chronic ear discharge, and those requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the chronic nature of the condition and any complications.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

History of recurrent otitis media, family history, and developmental milestones.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children with frequent ear infections and associated hearing loss.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact on speech and language development is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H66.3 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, H66
  • 3 should be used when there is a documented history of chronic suppurative otitis media without specific mention of cholesteatoma or other complications
  • It is important to ensure that the chronic nature of the condition is well
  • documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H66.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanoplasty

Clinical Scenario

Performed for chronic suppurative otitis media with tympanic membrane perforation.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must document the extent of the disease and any complications.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like H66.3, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic ear diseases.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like H66.3, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic ear diseases.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and to avoid audits.

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 is the difference between H66.3 and H66.0?

H66.3 refers to chronic suppurative otitis media, while H66.0 is for acute suppurative otitis media. The distinction is based on the duration and nature of the symptoms.