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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH68.123

H68.123

Billable

Intrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of Eustachian tube, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H68.123 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of intrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of eustachian tube, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Intrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of the Eustachian tube is a condition characterized by the narrowing or blockage of the Eustachian tube due to intrinsic factors, such as inflammation or structural abnormalities of the cartilage. This obstruction can lead to a variety of complications, including middle ear effusion, otitis media, and hearing loss. In bilateral cases, both Eustachian tubes are affected, which can exacerbate symptoms and complicate management. Patients may present with symptoms such as ear fullness, pressure, tinnitus, and hearing impairment. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, audiometric testing, and possibly imaging studies to assess the anatomy of the Eustachian tubes. Management may include medical therapies such as decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or surgical interventions like balloon Eustachian tuboplasty if conservative measures fail. Understanding the underlying causes and appropriate treatment options is crucial for effective management of this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between intrinsic and extrinsic causes of Eustachian tube obstruction.
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of symptoms and diagnostic tests.
  • Potential overlap with other ear-related diagnoses, complicating coding.
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on patient presentation.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings.
  • Failure to specify bilateral involvement in the medical record.
  • Misinterpretation of diagnostic tests leading to incorrect coding.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and follow-up care.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the bilateral nature of the obstruction and any associated conditions.

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 Eustachian tube obstruction symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the relationship between allergic conditions and Eustachian tube dysfunction is essential for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H68.123 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, H68
  • 123 should be used when there is clear documentation of bilateral intrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of the Eustachian tube
  • It is important to ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical findings and that other potential causes of Eustachian tube dysfunction are ruled out

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H68.123 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69705CPT Code

Balloon dilation of Eustachian tube

Clinical Scenario

Used when conservative management fails and surgical intervention is warranted.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that the surgical necessity is well-documented to support the procedure.

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 H68.123, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity helps in better understanding the prevalence and management of Eustachian tube disorders.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like H68.123, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity helps in better understanding the prevalence and management of Eustachian tube disorders.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like H68.123, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity helps in better understanding the prevalence and management 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, pressure, tinnitus, and hearing loss. Patients may also experience recurrent ear infections due to fluid accumulation.

How is this condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination, audiometric testing, and possibly imaging studies to assess the Eustachian tube's anatomy and function.

What treatment options are available?

Treatment may include medical management with decongestants and nasal corticosteroids, or surgical options like balloon Eustachian tuboplasty if conservative measures fail.