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Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Tympanic Membrane Debridement

Published on Fri Feb 01, 2002

Question: The otolaryngologist performed microscopic debridement and cautery of scar tissue on the tympanic membrane. How should I code this?

Missouri Subscriber  
Answer: Code 69450 (tympanolysis, transcanal) would apply in this case. Coders Desk Reference notes that the otolaryngologist treats a lesion or other irritation to the tympanic membrane. Using an operating microscope, adhesions (or scar tissue, in this case) are removed from the surface of the eardrum.
 
Note: Although 69450 involves use of a microscope, 69990 (microsurgical techniques, requiring use of operating microscope [list separately in addition to code for primary procedure]) should not be reported separately, as it is bundled with 69450 in the Correct Coding Initiative. The edit has a 0 indicator, which means it cannot be bypassed.
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