How To Use CPT Code 69300

CPT 69300 describes a surgical procedure known as otoplasty, which is performed to correct acquired or congenital deformities of the ear, such as protruding ears. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 69300?

CPT 69300 is a code used to describe otoplasty, a surgical procedure that aims to rectify acquired or congenital deformities of the ear, particularly protruding ears. The provider reshapes the structural elements of the ear to achieve a more desirable cosmetic appearance.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 69300 is: ‘Otoplasty, protruding ear, with or without size reduction.’ It is important to note that for a bilateral procedure, modifier 50 should be appended to the code.

3. Procedure

1. When the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized, the provider makes an incision behind the ear at its attachment to the head.
2. The size of the ear and the extent of the deformity determine the techniques used by the provider to reshape or reposition the ear.
3. If the ear is too large, the provider may remove cartilage and skin to achieve the desired effect.
4. To obtain a more natural shape, the provider may trim cartilage or pin it back to the skin on the head to reduce protrusion.
5. In some cases, the provider may use sutures to reshape the ear and secure it in place without removing cartilage.
6. The provider ensures any bleeding is controlled, closes any remaining incisions, and applies a bandage to cover the ear.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Otoplasty with CPT 69300 is typically performed on patients with acquired or congenital deformities of the ear, specifically protruding ears. The procedure is aimed at achieving a more desirable cosmetic appearance. It is important to note that for a bilateral procedure, modifier 50 should be appended to the code.

5. When to use CPT code 69300

CPT code 69300 should be used when a provider performs otoplasty to correct protruding ears, with or without size reduction. It is important to ensure that the procedure aligns with the official description and qualifying circumstances mentioned above.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 69300, the provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s diagnosis indicating the need for otoplasty
• Details of the procedure performed, including any size reduction if applicable
• Date of the procedure
• Incision location and technique used
• Extent of cartilage and skin removal or reshaping
• Any additional procedures performed, if applicable
• Control of bleeding and closure of incisions
• Application of a bandage to cover the ear

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 69300, ensure that the procedure aligns with the official description and qualifying circumstances. If the procedure is performed bilaterally, append modifier 50 to the code. It is important to review the specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reporting and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 69300 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 patient undergoes otoplasty to correct protruding ears and achieve a more desirable cosmetic appearance.
2. A provider performs otoplasty with size reduction on a patient with bilateral protruding ears.
3. A child with congenital deformities of the ear undergoes otoplasty to reshape and reposition the ears.
4. An adult seeks otoplasty to address acquired deformities of the ear caused by trauma.
5. A patient undergoes otoplasty to improve self-esteem and confidence by correcting the appearance of their ears.
6. A provider performs otoplasty on a patient who desires a more natural shape and position of their ears.
7. An individual with protruding ears undergoes otoplasty to reduce the extent of protrusion and achieve a more balanced facial appearance.
8. A provider performs otoplasty on a patient with asymmetrical ears to achieve a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing result.
9. A teenager undergoes otoplasty to address teasing and bullying related to the appearance of their ears.
10. An adult seeks otoplasty to correct the appearance of their ears that has caused them emotional distress and self-consciousness.