ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH68.029

H68.029

Billable

Chronic Eustachian salpingitis, unspecified ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H68.029 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic eustachian salpingitis, unspecified ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic Eustachian salpingitis refers to the inflammation of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx. This condition can lead to persistent dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, resulting in negative pressure in the middle ear, fluid accumulation, and potential hearing loss. Patients may present with symptoms such as ear fullness, discomfort, and intermittent hearing impairment. Chronic cases can be associated with recurrent otitis media, particularly in children, and may require careful management to prevent complications such as tympanic membrane perforation or chronic otitis media. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical history, otoscopic examination, and possibly audiometric testing to assess hearing function. Treatment may include decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or surgical interventions like tympanostomy tube placement in severe cases. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and tracking of healthcare outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic conditions
  • Potential overlap with other ear-related diagnoses
  • Variability in clinical presentation among patients
  • Need for comprehensive documentation to support chronicity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of chronicity
  • Failure to link symptoms to the diagnosis
  • Misclassification of acute versus chronic conditions
  • Lack of supporting diagnostic tests

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, results of physical examination, and any imaging or audiometric tests performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with recurrent ear infections, hearing loss, or pressure-related symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the chronic nature of the condition and any treatments attempted.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth and development assessments, family history of ear conditions, and detailed symptom history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children with recurrent otitis media or chronic ear discomfort.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of age-related factors in treatment and management.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H68.029 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding chronic conditions
  • Ensure that documentation supports the chronic nature of the Eustachian salpingitis and any associated symptoms or complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H68.029 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69436CPT Code

Tympanostomy, general anesthesia

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with chronic Eustachian salpingitis requiring drainage.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery and any prior treatments attempted.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that all pre-operative assessments are documented.

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 Eustachian salpingitis, 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 Eustachian salpingitis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic ear diseases.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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

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 chronic Eustachian salpingitis?

Common symptoms include ear fullness, discomfort, and hearing loss, often exacerbated by allergies or upper respiratory infections.

How is chronic Eustachian salpingitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through patient history, physical examination, and audiometric testing to assess hearing function.

What treatments are available for chronic Eustachian salpingitis?

Treatment options include decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, and in some cases, surgical interventions like tympanostomy tube placement.