69000 drainage external ear absc/hem simple
Also known as: external ear drainage, ear abscess drainage
Drainage of abscess or hematoma of external ear using simple drainage technique without complex exploration.
In Plain Language
draining infection from outer ear; opening ear swelling
Clinical Context
Used for infected or blood collections in external ear. Common indications include otitis externa with abscess, post-traumatic hematoma, or cellulitis of auricle.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.46 |
| Total RVU | 1.46 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.46, this code ranks in the 9th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 69000?
CPT 69000 (drainage external ear absc/hem simple) is a Surgery code. Drainage of abscess or hematoma of external ear using simple drainage technique without complex exploration.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 69000?
The work RVU for CPT 69000 is 1.46. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology, Dermatology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 69000 used?
Used for infected or blood collections in external ear. Common indications include otitis externa with abscess, post-traumatic hematoma, or cellulitis of auricle.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.