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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH72.02

H72.02

Billable

Central perforation of tympanic membrane, left ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H72.02 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of central perforation of tympanic membrane, left ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Central perforation of the tympanic membrane (TM) in the left ear is a condition characterized by a defect or hole in the central part of the TM, which separates the external ear from the middle ear. This perforation can result from various causes, including chronic otitis media, trauma, or barotrauma. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as hearing loss, otorrhea (ear discharge), tinnitus, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. The perforation can lead to complications such as recurrent ear infections and further hearing impairment. Diagnosis typically involves otoscopic examination, where the perforation is visualized, and audiometric testing to assess hearing loss. Management may include medical treatment for any underlying infection, surgical intervention such as tympanoplasty for repair of the TM, and audiological rehabilitation if necessary. The prognosis is generally good, especially with timely intervention, but chronic cases may lead to persistent issues.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of tympanic membrane perforations (central vs. marginal)
  • Understanding the underlying causes (e.g., otitis media, trauma)
  • Documenting associated symptoms and complications accurately
  • Navigating coding for potential surgical interventions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the cause of perforation
  • Failure to document associated symptoms or complications
  • Incorrect coding of the side of the perforation
  • Linking to inappropriate hearing loss codes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, otoscopic findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic ear infections, hearing loss, or post-traumatic ear issues.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the type of perforation and any surgical interventions planned.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluation results and correlation with tympanic membrane status.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of hearing loss in patients with known tympanic membrane perforations.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of the perforation on hearing and any recommended rehabilitation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H72.02 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding ear conditions, ensuring accurate documentation of the perforation's location and any associated conditions
  • Include any relevant history of otitis media or trauma

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H72.02 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanoplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required to repair the perforated tympanic membrane.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery, findings during the procedure, and postoperative care.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must 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 precise coding of tympanic membrane conditions, improving the ability to track and manage these cases effectively. H72.02 provides specificity regarding the location of the perforation, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes assessment.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of tympanic membrane conditions, improving the ability to track and manage these cases effectively. H72.02 provides specificity regarding the location of the perforation, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes assessment.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of tympanic membrane conditions, improving the ability to track and manage these cases effectively. H72.02 provides specificity regarding the location of the perforation, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes assessment.

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 causes of central perforation of the tympanic membrane?

Common causes include chronic otitis media, trauma, and barotrauma. Each of these conditions can compromise the integrity of the tympanic membrane, leading to perforation.

How is central perforation of the tympanic membrane diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through otoscopic examination, where the perforation can be visualized, and audiometric testing to assess the degree of hearing loss.

What are the treatment options for a central perforation of the tympanic membrane?

Treatment options may include medical management of any underlying infections, surgical repair (tympanoplasty), and audiological rehabilitation if hearing loss is significant.