Otolaryngology coding conference

If you are stumped while coding a tympanoplasty with mastoidectomy, you are not alone as with the list of similar-looking codes, anyone could get turned around. The important thing is memorizing which codes represent a wall up and wall down approach, and identifying an ossicular chain reconstruction (OCR).

1. Canal wall up with OCR preserves canal, removes Ossicles

The trademark of a canal wall up mastoidectomy is preserving intact the bony posterior external auditory canal. The CPT codes for a wall up approach with OCR are: 69636, 69637, 69642, 69644.

2. Canal wall up no OCR maintains canal and Ossicles

If the surgeon maintains the external auditory canal but does not mention the incus you are looking at a wall up approach without OCR, the codes for which are: 69635, 69641, and 69643.

3. Canal Wall Down means radical Mastoidectomy

The terms ‘radial’ or ‘complete’ tell you the surgeon used a canal wall down approach for the mastoidectomy.

For more Otolaryngology coding updates, sign up for Otolaryngology coding conferences. One such conference is taking place later this year at Orlando, FL which will certainly prove beneficial for all otolaryngology coders. When you sign up for one, you will get expert solutions to all your otolaryngology coding and reimbursement challenges under one roof.

Even if you find it difficult to attend one, you can train your team from the comforts of your home with the help of audio CDs and MP3s. So get the benefits of an otolaryngology coding conference and see the big difference in your practice’s revenue.