69205 Clear outer ear canal
Also known as: cerumen removal complex, impacted wax removal
Removal of impacted cerumen or debris from external auditory canal with additional cleaning or instrumentation.
In Plain Language
removing stubborn earwax; cleaning impacted ear canal
Clinical Context
Used for impacted cerumen requiring removal. Common indications include cerumen impaction or severe cerumen buildup.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.18 |
| Total RVU | 1.18 |
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 1.18, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 69205?
CPT 69205 (Clear outer ear canal) is a Surgery code. Removal of impacted cerumen or debris from external auditory canal with additional cleaning or instrumentation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 69205?
The work RVU for CPT 69205 is 1.18. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 69205 used?
Used for impacted cerumen requiring removal. Common indications include cerumen impaction or severe cerumen buildup.
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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.