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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH68.121

H68.121

Billable

Intrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of Eustachian tube, right ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H68.121 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of intrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of eustachian tube, right ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Intrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of the Eustachian tube in the right ear refers to a condition where the cartilage of the Eustachian tube becomes obstructed, leading to impaired drainage of the middle ear. This obstruction can result from various factors, including inflammation, infection, or structural abnormalities. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as ear fullness, hearing loss, tinnitus, and recurrent otitis media. The obstruction can lead to negative pressure in the middle ear, resulting in fluid accumulation and potential complications such as tympanic membrane perforation or chronic otitis media. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough history, physical examination, and may include audiometric testing and tympanometry to assess middle ear function. Management may include medical therapy such as decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or surgical interventions like balloon Eustachian tuboplasty if conservative measures fail. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate reimbursement and tracking of healthcare outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between intrinsic and extrinsic causes of Eustachian tube obstruction
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and diagnostic tests
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on patient presentation
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the side of the obstruction
  • Misclassification of the type of obstruction (intrinsic vs. extrinsic)
  • Lack of supporting diagnostic tests in the medical record

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, physical examination findings, and results of audiometric tests.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with recurrent otitis media, hearing loss, or chronic ear fullness.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the specific nature of the obstruction and any interventions performed.

Allergy and Immunology

Documentation Requirements

History of allergic rhinitis or other allergic conditions that may contribute to Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with allergies presenting with ear symptoms related to Eustachian tube obstruction.

Billing Considerations

Document any allergy testing and treatment plans that may impact Eustachian tube function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H68.121 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring to document the specific nature of the obstruction and any associated conditions
  • Include relevant diagnostic tests and treatment plans in the medical record

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H68.121 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69710CPT Code

Balloon dilation of Eustachian tube

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where conservative management fails and obstruction is confirmed.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure, findings during the procedure, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on the patient's history and examination findings.

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 H68.121, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in tracking outcomes and understanding the prevalence of Eustachian tube disorders.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like H68.121, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in tracking outcomes and understanding the prevalence of Eustachian tube disorders.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity helps in tracking outcomes and understanding the prevalence of Eustachian tube disorders.

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 intrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of the Eustachian tube?

Common symptoms include ear fullness, hearing loss, tinnitus, and recurrent ear infections. Patients may also experience discomfort or pressure in the affected ear.