Advanced Search

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Tympanoplasty Includes Graft

Published on Tue May 01, 2001

Question: My otolaryngologist performed a type I tympanoplasty with temporalis fascia graft. Can I bill the graft separately, or is it included in the tympanoplasty?

Idaho Subscriber

Answer: The graft is included in the tympanostomy and should not be billed separately. Although the procedures are not bundled in the national Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) and the CPT descriptor does not include obtaining the graft, the fee for the graft has been factored into the value of 69631 (tympanoplasty without mastoidectomy [including canalplasty, atticotomy and/or middle ear surgery)], initial or revision; without ossicular chain reconstruction).

The lay description of the procedure in Coders Desk Reference also supports this view, stating, Some fascia from the temporalis muscle or other tissues is harvested as a graft to repair the tympanic membrane perforation.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Otolaryngology Coding Alert

View All