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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH72.813

H72.813

Billable

Multiple perforations of tympanic membrane, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H72.813 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of multiple perforations of tympanic membrane, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Multiple perforations of the tympanic membrane, commonly referred to as the eardrum, can occur due to various etiologies, including chronic otitis media, trauma, or barotrauma. This condition is characterized by the presence of two or more perforations in the tympanic membrane of both ears, which can lead to significant auditory impairment and increased susceptibility to infections. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as hearing loss, ear pain, discharge from the ear, and a sensation of fullness. Diagnosis is typically made through otoscopic examination, which reveals the perforations and assesses their size and location. Management may involve medical treatment, such as antibiotics for associated infections, or surgical interventions like tympanoplasty to repair the perforations. The presence of bilateral perforations can complicate treatment and may require a multidisciplinary approach, including audiology and otolaryngology consultations.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Bilateral nature of the condition complicates coding.
  • Differentiation from unilateral perforations requires careful documentation.
  • Potential for associated conditions like chronic otitis media.
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and treatment plans.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of bilateral involvement.
  • Failure to document the cause of perforations.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans.
  • Misalignment between diagnosis and procedural codes.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed otoscopic findings, treatment plans, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of chronic otitis media leading to tympanic membrane perforations.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the bilateral nature and any associated procedures.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric evaluations and hearing loss assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of hearing loss due to tympanic membrane perforations.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of perforations on hearing thresholds.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H72.813 When
  • According to the ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, H72
  • 813 should be used when there are multiple perforations in the tympanic membrane of both ears
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the bilateral nature of the condition and any associated treatments

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H72.813 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Tympanoplasty, with or without mastoidectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical repair of the tympanic membrane is performed due to multiple perforations.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngology specialists should ensure accurate coding of the procedure in relation to the diagnosis.

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 tympanic membrane perforations, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of ear-related diseases.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like bilateral tympanic membrane perforations, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of ear-related diseases.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 multiple perforations of the tympanic membrane?

Common causes include chronic otitis media, trauma, and barotrauma. Each of these conditions can lead to the development of multiple perforations, necessitating careful evaluation and management.