2025 CPT code 69705
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Auditory System Surgery Feed
Surgical nasopharyngoscopy with unilateral Eustachian tube dilation (balloon dilation).
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the procedure. For example, modifier 51 (multiple procedures) may be used if other procedures are performed on the same day.Modifiers 22 (increased procedural services) or 59 (distinct procedural service) may be used in certain clinical scenarios.
Medical necessity for Eustachian tube balloon dilation is established when conservative treatments like decongestants and anti-inflammatory medications have failed to improve symptoms of chronic ETD, leading to persistent hearing loss or significant ear pressure.
An otolaryngologist (ENT surgeon) typically performs this procedure. The clinical responsibility includes proper patient preparation, nasal anesthesia, insertion and manipulation of the endoscope and balloon catheter, precise dilation of the Eustachian tube, and post-procedure monitoring.
In simple words: This procedure uses a thin tube with a camera (endoscope) inserted through the nose to view the nasal passages and sinuses. A small balloon on a catheter is then passed through the endoscope into the Eustachian tube (a tube connecting the ear and throat) to widen it and improve hearing or treat ear infections.
This CPT code 69705 represents surgical nasopharyngoscopy involving the dilation of a single Eustachian tube using a balloon catheter.The procedure begins with appropriate preparation and anesthesia of the nasal passages. A surgeon inserts an endoscope through the nose, guiding a specially designed balloon-tipped catheter into the Eustachian tube. The balloon is inflated to dilate the tube, then deflated and withdrawn along with the endoscope.This procedure addresses Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) or hearing loss caused by middle ear fluid.
Example 1: A 45-year-old patient presents with chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction, experiencing persistent ear fullness and intermittent hearing loss.Balloon dilation is performed to restore proper Eustachian tube function., A 60-year-old patient with a history of recurrent otitis media with effusion undergoes Eustachian tube balloon dilation to relieve middle ear pressure and improve drainage, following failure of conservative management., A 30-year-old patient after previous ear surgery has developed Eustachian tube stenosis resulting in significant conductive hearing loss.Balloon dilation is used to expand the narrowed Eustachian tube and improve hearing.
Pre-operative assessment including audiometry, otoscopy, and potentially tympanometry. Intra-operative documentation including the type of endoscope and catheter used, the degree of dilation achieved, and any complications encountered. Post-operative audiometry and follow-up notes.
** This procedure is considered a minimally invasive surgical technique.While generally well-tolerated, potential complications include bleeding, infection, or perforation of the Eustachian tube.The success rate may vary among patients.
- Revenue Code: P8I (ENDOSCOPY - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: The technical component (TC) modifier may be applicable if the procedure is performed by an assistant surgeon.
- Specialties:Otolaryngology
- Place of Service:Office, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient Department