69610 Tympanic membrane repair
Also known as: tympanic membrane repair, TM repair, traumatic drum repair
Simple repair of traumatic or surgical defects of the tympanic membrane to restore anatomical integrity and prevent infection.
In Plain Language
simple eardrum patch; closing a eardrum hole
Clinical Context
Used for traumatic perforations, post-surgical defects, or perforations causing conductive hearing loss or recurrent infection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.36 |
| Total RVU | 4.36 |
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 4.36, this code ranks in the 30th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 69610?
CPT 69610 (Tympanic membrane repair) is a Surgery code. Simple repair of traumatic or surgical defects of the tympanic membrane to restore anatomical integrity and prevent infection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 69610?
The work RVU for CPT 69610 is 4.36. This code is primarily used by otolaryngology, surgical otology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 69610 used?
Used for traumatic perforations, post-surgical defects, or perforations causing conductive hearing loss or recurrent infection.
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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.