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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH69.01

H69.01

Billable

Patulous Eustachian tube, right ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H69.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of patulous eustachian tube, right ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Patulous Eustachian tube (PET) is a condition characterized by an abnormally open Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx. This condition can lead to various auditory symptoms, including a sensation of fullness in the ear, autophony (hearing one's own voice loudly), and potential hearing loss. In the right ear, these symptoms may be exacerbated by factors such as weight loss, dehydration, or hormonal changes. Clinically, patients may present with complaints of ear fullness, fluctuating hearing, and discomfort during activities that alter pressure, such as flying or diving. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, often supplemented by audiometric testing and tympanometry to assess middle ear function. Management may include conservative measures such as nasal decongestants, hydration, and in some cases, surgical interventions like Eustachian tube dilation or tympanostomy tubes if conservative measures fail. Understanding the nuances of this condition is crucial for accurate coding and effective patient management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Differentiation from other Eustachian tube dysfunctions
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting the ear
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and treatments

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms
  • Failure to specify laterality (right ear)
  • Misdiagnosis or coding of related conditions
  • Lack of supporting diagnostic tests

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear fullness, autophony, or hearing loss.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the specific nature of the Eustachian tube dysfunction and any interventions performed.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations and interpretations, patient history regarding hearing changes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing hearing assessments due to suspected Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Billing Considerations

Document any correlation between audiometric findings and patient-reported symptoms.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H69.01 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, H69
  • 01 should be used when the patulous Eustachian tube is confirmed in the right ear
  • It is essential to document the clinical findings and any diagnostic tests performed to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H69.01 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69436CPT Code

Tympanostomy tube placement

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where Eustachian tube dysfunction leads to recurrent otitis media.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for surgery and previous treatment attempts.

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 patulous Eustachian tube, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like patulous Eustachian tube, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like patulous Eustachian tube, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

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 a patulous Eustachian tube?

Common symptoms include ear fullness, autophony, and fluctuating hearing loss, particularly during pressure changes.