2025 CPT code 69610

Repair of perforated tympanic membrane, including site preparation and patching.

Code 69610 is reported once per perforation repair, regardless of the technique used.Do not report removal of a ventilation tube during the same operative session.

Modifier 50 is applicable for bilateral procedures. Other modifiers may be applicable depending on specific circumstances.

Medical necessity for 69610 is established by the presence of a symptomatic tympanic membrane perforation that has not healed spontaneously, is causing hearing loss, or is associated with recurrent infections. Documentation should support the functional impairment and the need for surgical intervention.

The physician performs the surgical repair of the perforated tympanic membrane, which may include preparing the site, applying a patch, and elevating the edges of the perforation.The physician utilizes microscopic visualization for precision.

In simple words: This procedure fixes a hole in your eardrum. The doctor may clean around the hole and place a patch over it to help it heal.This is done to help improve hearing and prevent infections.

This procedure involves the repair of a perforated tympanic membrane (eardrum). It may include preparing the perforation site (e.g., roughening or rimming), and application of a patch to facilitate healing.The procedure may involve elevating the edges of the perforation from the middle ear. Visualization is typically achieved using a microscope.

Example 1: A patient presents with a perforated eardrum caused by a middle ear infection. The physician performs a tympanoplasty (69610) to repair the perforation., A child has a persistent perforation after ventilation tube removal. The physician performs 69610 to close the perforation and restore hearing., A patient experiences a traumatic eardrum perforation after accidentally inserting a cotton swab too far into the ear canal. The physician performs 69610 to repair the damage.

Documentation should include the cause and size of the perforation, the method of repair, type of graft material used (if any), and any associated procedures performed.Pre- and postoperative hearing assessments are also beneficial.

** Tympanoplasty using endoscopic approach is becoming more common and falls under 69610. The specific surgical technique (e.g. medial underlay, lateral graft) does not change the code used.

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