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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH68.013

H68.013

Billable

Acute Eustachian salpingitis, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H68.013 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute eustachian salpingitis, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute Eustachian salpingitis refers to the inflammation of the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the nasopharynx. When bilateral, it indicates that both tubes are affected. This condition often arises from infections, such as upper respiratory tract infections or otitis media, leading to symptoms like ear pain, pressure, and potential hearing loss. Patients may also experience a sensation of fullness in the ears, tinnitus, and sometimes vertigo. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, including otoscopic evaluation and possibly tympanometry to assess middle ear function. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying infection, which may include antibiotics if a bacterial cause is suspected, along with symptomatic relief through analgesics and decongestants. In some cases, if fluid accumulation persists, surgical intervention such as tympanostomy may be necessary to facilitate drainage. Understanding the nuances of this condition is crucial for accurate coding and management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic conditions
  • Understanding bilateral versus unilateral presentations
  • Identifying associated symptoms and complications
  • Navigating related codes for otitis media and other ear conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify bilateral involvement
  • Misuse of related codes for otitis media
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain, pressure, and hearing loss following upper respiratory infections.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the bilateral nature of the condition and any associated treatments.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Thorough history including previous ear infections, family history, and current symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children with recurrent ear infections presenting with acute symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of developmental milestones and potential impact on hearing.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H68.013 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 guidelines for coding acute conditions
  • Ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis of bilateral Eustachian salpingitis and that any associated conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H68.013 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69436CPT Code

Tympanostomy, bilateral

Clinical Scenario

Used when fluid accumulation persists despite medical management.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery and previous treatment attempts.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure clear documentation of the need for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of conditions like acute Eustachian salpingitis, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of conditions like acute Eustachian salpingitis, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of conditions like acute Eustachian salpingitis, 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 acute Eustachian salpingitis?

Common symptoms include ear pain, pressure, hearing loss, tinnitus, and sometimes vertigo.

How is acute Eustachian salpingitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination, otoscopy, and tympanometry to assess middle ear function.

What treatments are available for acute Eustachian salpingitis?

Treatment may include antibiotics for bacterial infections, analgesics for pain relief, and in some cases, surgical intervention like tympanostomy.