Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Stapedectomy and Tympanoplasty Coded Separately

Question: A stapedectomy revision is done because the prosthesis has punctured the eardrum, requiring type I tympanoplasty. Are these coded separately?

Anonymous MA Subscriber

Answer: Garnet Dunston, the former secretary of the American Academy of Professional Coders, says, according to the information given, the codes that should be used are 69662 for the stapedectomy revision and 69620 for type I tympanoplasty (myringoplasty). The 69620 would need a -51 modifier for a multiple procedure. According to HCFAs Correct Coding Initiative, they are coded separately.

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