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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH72.10

H72.10

Billable

Attic perforation of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H72.10 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of attic perforation of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Attic perforation of the tympanic membrane refers to a specific type of eardrum perforation that occurs in the attic region of the tympanic membrane, which is the upper part of the eardrum. This condition is often associated with chronic otitis media, particularly when there is a cholesteatoma present. Patients may present with symptoms such as hearing loss, ear discharge, and sometimes pain or discomfort in the ear. The perforation can lead to complications such as further hearing loss, infection, or the spread of infection to surrounding structures. Diagnosis typically involves otoscopic examination, where the physician can visualize the perforation and assess its size and location. Imaging studies, such as CT scans, may be utilized to evaluate the extent of any associated conditions, particularly if a cholesteatoma is suspected. Management may include medical treatment with antibiotics for any infection, and surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the perforation and address any underlying issues. Surgical options include tympanoplasty or mastoidectomy, depending on the severity and nature of the condition. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and tracking of healthcare outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of the condition
  • Need for precise documentation of the perforation's size and location
  • Potential for associated conditions like cholesteatoma
  • Differentiation from other types of tympanic membrane perforations

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the ear involved (right, left, or bilateral)
  • Lack of clarity on associated conditions like cholesteatoma
  • Inconsistent coding of related surgical procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed otoscopic findings, size and location of the perforation, and any associated conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic ear infections, hearing loss, or recurrent ear discharge.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the clinical rationale for surgical intervention if performed.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations and assessments of hearing loss related to the perforation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing hearing assessments post-perforation or post-surgery.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of the perforation on hearing thresholds and any rehabilitative measures taken.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H72.10 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for the use of H72
  • 10, ensuring that the documentation supports the diagnosis
  • Include details about the clinical presentation and any relevant imaging studies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H72.10 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanoplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical repair of the tympanic membrane is performed due to attic perforation.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure that the surgical approach is clearly 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 attic perforation, improving the granularity of data for healthcare providers and payers. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like attic perforation, improving the granularity of data for healthcare providers and payers. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like attic perforation, improving the granularity of data for healthcare providers and payers. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

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 is the significance of specifying the ear in H72.10?

Specifying the ear is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, as management may differ based on whether the right or left ear is affected.