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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH68.133

H68.133

Billable

Extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of Eustachian tube, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H68.133 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of eustachian tube, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of the Eustachian tube, bilateral, refers to a condition where the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the nasopharynx, are obstructed due to external factors affecting the cartilaginous structure. This obstruction can lead to a variety of complications, including fluid accumulation in the middle ear, increased risk of otitis media, and potential hearing loss. Patients may present with symptoms such as ear fullness, discomfort, hearing impairment, and recurrent ear infections. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, audiometric testing, and possibly imaging studies to assess the patency of the Eustachian tubes. Management may include medical therapies such as decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or surgical interventions like balloon Eustachian tuboplasty to relieve the obstruction. Understanding the underlying causes, which may include allergies, anatomical variations, or inflammatory conditions, is crucial for effective treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of ear anatomy and function
  • Differentiation from other Eustachian tube disorders
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and interventions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and treatment
  • Failure to specify bilateral involvement
  • Misclassification with other Eustachian tube disorders
  • Lack of supporting diagnostic tests

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

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

Allergy and Immunology

Documentation Requirements

History of allergic conditions, response to allergy treatments, and any related nasal symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with allergies contributing to Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the relationship between allergic reactions and Eustachian tube obstruction is critical.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H68.133 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of bilateral involvement
  • Include any relevant co
  • morbid conditions that may affect treatment and outcomes

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H68.133 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69705CPT Code

Balloon dilation of Eustachian tube

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of persistent Eustachian tube obstruction after medical management fails.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

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

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 bilateral Eustachian tube obstruction, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like bilateral Eustachian tube obstruction, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like bilateral Eustachian tube obstruction, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management strategies.

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 extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of the Eustachian tube?

Common symptoms include ear fullness, discomfort, hearing loss, and recurrent ear infections. Patients may also experience pressure changes in the ear, especially during altitude changes.