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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH68.139

H68.139

Billable

Extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of Eustachian tube, unspecified ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H68.139 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of eustachian tube, unspecified ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of the Eustachian tube refers to a blockage caused by external factors affecting the cartilage structure of the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx. This condition can lead to various complications, including otitis media, hearing loss, and balance disorders. Patients may present with symptoms such as ear fullness, muffled hearing, and discomfort. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, audiometric testing, and possibly imaging studies to assess the extent of the obstruction. Management may include medical therapies such as decongestants, nasal corticosteroids, or surgical interventions like balloon Eustachian tuboplasty. The unspecified ear designation indicates that the condition is not limited to one ear, which can complicate treatment and management strategies. Understanding the underlying causes, such as allergies or anatomical variations, is crucial for effective treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Need for differential diagnosis with other ear conditions
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting treatment
  • Documentation requirements for surgical interventions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the affected ear when applicable
  • Lack of clear treatment plans or follow-up notes
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including patient history, examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with recurrent otitis media or chronic ear fullness.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation supports the need for surgical intervention if performed.

Allergy and Immunology

Documentation Requirements

Allergy testing results and treatment plans for underlying allergic conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with Eustachian tube dysfunction secondary to allergic rhinitis.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the relationship between allergies and Eustachian tube obstruction is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H68.139 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the clinical scenario
  • Include any relevant co
  • existing conditions and specify the affected ear when applicable
  • Use additional codes for associated conditions such as otitis media

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H68.139 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69436CPT Code

Balloon dilation of Eustachian tube

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for Eustachian tube obstruction.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessment, surgical notes, and post-operative follow-up.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure clear documentation of the indication for surgery.

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 extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of the Eustachian tube, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of Eustachian tube obstruction?

Common symptoms include ear fullness, muffled hearing, discomfort, and in some cases, pain or pressure in the ear.

How is Eustachian tube obstruction diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination, audiometric testing, and possibly imaging studies to assess the obstruction.

What treatments are available for Eustachian tube obstruction?

Treatment options include medical management with decongestants and nasal corticosteroids, as well as surgical interventions like balloon dilation.