ICD-10-CM Billable Code

H90.11

Conductive hearing loss, unilateral, right ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Unilateral conductive hearing loss refers to a hearing issue affecting only one ear, specifically the right ear in ICD-10 code H90.11. This condition occurs when sound is not transmitted properly through the outer or middle ear to reach the inner ear, leading to hearing difficulties on one side. Despite the hearing impairment in the affected ear, the opposite ear maintains normal hearing ability, allowing for some level of auditory function and awareness of sound from the unaffected side.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Ear infections (otitis media) Eardrum perforation Earwax build-up (cerumen impaction) Abnormal growths or tumors in the middle ear (e.g., cholesteatoma) Ossicular chain disorders (disruption of the small bones in the middle ear) Congenital malformations of the ear structures Carnal trauma or injury to the ear Eustachian tube dysfunction

Key Symptoms: Difficulty hearing sounds clearly in the affected ear Muffling or reduced clarity of speech from the right side Feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear Possible ear discomfort or pain Ringing or ringing sensation (tinnitus) occasionally Difficulty localizing sounds coming from the affected side Normal hearing in the unaffected left ear

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves several steps including a thorough medical history review, physical examination of the ear, and hearing tests such as audiometry to evaluate hearing levels. Additional tests like tympanometry may be used to assess middle ear function. An otoscopic examination helps identify any obstructions, eardrum perforation, or abnormalities in the ear structures. Imaging studies might be recommended if a growth or structural anomaly is suspected.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the conductive hearing loss. Common interventions include medication for infections, removal of earwax or foreign objects, surgical procedures to repair the eardrum or ossicles, or placement of hearing aids if necessary. Addressing middle ear infections promptly and managing Eustachian tube dysfunction can also prevent persistent hearing issues. Regular follow-up with an ENT specialist ensures the most appropriate care plan is maintained.

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is H90.11 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H90.11 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report H90.11?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Conductive hearing loss, unilateral, right ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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