When is it appropriate to report CPT 69210, removal of impacted cerumen (separate procedure), for one or both ears?
CPT Guidelines state the reporting of 69210 involves direct visualization, in which the physician is removing impacted cerumen using suction, a cerumen spoon, or delicate forceps. If no infection is present, the ear canal may also be irrigated. If the use of an operating microscope is necessary you may also bill for the add-on code 69990, “Microsurgical techniques requiring use of an operating microscope”. Medicare will not pay additionally for the use of the operating microscope with code CPT 69210 perClaims Processing Manual 100-04, Chapter 12, Section 20.4.5.A major element in determining if you should report 69210 is understanding the definition of impacted cerumen.
CPT Guidelines state the reporting of 69210 involves direct visualization, in which the physician is removing impacted cerumen using suction, a cerumen spoon, or delicate forceps. If no infection is present, the ear canal may also be irrigated. If the use of an operating microscope is necessary you may also bill for the add-on code 69990, “Microsurgical techniques requiring use of an operating microscope”. Medicare will not pay additionally for the use of the operating microscope with code CPT 69210 per Claims Processing Manual 100-04, Chapter 12, Section 20.4.5. A major element in determining if you should report 69210 is understanding the definition of impacted cerumen.
