69420 Incision of eardrum
Also known as: myringotomy, tympano-centesis
Incision of tympanum (eardrum) including simple myringotomy for ventilation tube insertion or fluid drainage.
In Plain Language
cutting eardrum hole; making drainage hole in eardrum
Clinical Context
Used for otitis media with effusion or acute otitis media. Common indications include middle ear effusion, ear drainage, or ventilation tube placement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.35 |
| Total RVU | 1.35 |
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 1.35, this code ranks in the 7th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 69420?
CPT 69420 (Incision of eardrum) is a Surgery code. Incision of tympanum (eardrum) including simple myringotomy for ventilation tube insertion or fluid drainage.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 69420?
The work RVU for CPT 69420 is 1.35. This code is primarily used by Otolaryngology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 69420 used?
Used for otitis media with effusion or acute otitis media. Common indications include middle ear effusion, ear drainage, or ventilation tube placement.
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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.