How To Use CPT Code 69205

CPT 69205 describes the removal of a foreign body from the external auditory canal using general anesthesia. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 69205?

CPT 69205 can be used to describe the procedure of removing a foreign body from the external auditory canal under general anesthesia. This code is used when a physician examines the ear, identifies the presence of a foreign body, and removes it using forceps. The procedure also includes thorough irrigation of the ear with normal saline and the instillation of antibiotic drops to prevent infection.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 69205 is: ‘Removal foreign body from external auditory canal; with general anesthesia.’

3. Procedure

1. After administering general anesthesia, the physician examines the ear to identify the presence of a foreign body.
2. If necessary, a microscope can be used to visualize the foreign body more clearly.
3. The physician then uses forceps, such as alligator forceps, to grasp and remove the foreign body from the external auditory canal.
4. Once the foreign body is successfully removed, the ear is thoroughly irrigated with normal saline to ensure any remaining debris is flushed out.
5. To prevent post-procedural infection, antibiotic drops are instilled in the auditory canal.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 69205 is performed when a foreign body is found in the external auditory canal. This can include objects like peas, beads, swabs, or insects. The procedure is typically done under general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and cooperation. The physician must use forceps to remove the foreign body and may also use a microscope for better visualization. Thorough irrigation and the instillation of antibiotic drops are essential to prevent infection.

5. When to use CPT code 69205

CPT code 69205 should be used when a physician performs the removal of a foreign body from the external auditory canal under general anesthesia. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to cases where general anesthesia is used. If the procedure is performed without general anesthesia, a different code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 69205, the physician must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical history and reason for the procedure
• Details of the foreign body, including its size, location, and any complications associated with it
• Date and time of the procedure
• Use of general anesthesia
• Method of visualization, such as the use of a microscope
• Description of the removal technique, including the use of forceps
• Thorough irrigation of the ear with normal saline
• Instillation of antibiotic drops
• Any post-procedural instructions or follow-up care
• Physician’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 69205, ensure that the procedure was performed under general anesthesia. It is important to use the appropriate anesthesia code in conjunction with CPT 69205. Additionally, be sure to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company. It is also important to note that CPT 69205 should not be reported if other removal procedures on the external ear (CPT 69200-69222) have been performed within the same session.

8. Historical information

CPT 69205 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A child presents with a small bead lodged in their external auditory canal. The physician performs CPT 69205 to remove the foreign body under general anesthesia.
2. An adult patient complains of severe pain and discomfort in their ear. Upon examination, the physician discovers an insect trapped in the external auditory canal. CPT 69205 is used to remove the foreign body using general anesthesia.
3. A teenager accidentally inserts a cotton swab too far into their ear, causing it to become stuck. The physician performs CPT 69205 to remove the foreign body under general anesthesia.
4. A young child is brought in with a pea lodged in their external auditory canal. The physician uses CPT 69205 to remove the foreign body under general anesthesia.
5. An elderly patient presents with a small toy part stuck in their ear. CPT 69205 is performed to remove the foreign body under general anesthesia.
6. A patient reports hearing loss and discomfort in their ear. The physician discovers a small bead in the external auditory canal and performs CPT 69205 to remove it under general anesthesia.
7. A toddler is brought in with a small insect trapped in their ear. CPT 69205 is used to remove the foreign body under general anesthesia.
8. A teenager accidentally inserts a small object into their ear, causing pain and irritation. The physician performs CPT 69205 to remove the foreign body under general anesthesia.
9. An adult patient complains of a buzzing sensation in their ear. Upon examination, the physician finds a live insect in the external auditory canal. CPT 69205 is used to remove the foreign body under general anesthesia.
10. A child presents with a small toy part stuck in their ear. The physician performs CPT 69205 to remove the foreign body under general anesthesia.