69801 Incise inner ear
Also known as: labyrinthotomy, inner ear incision, labyrinthectomy
Surgical incision of the inner ear (labyrinth) to access or drain inner ear pathology.
In Plain Language
opening the inner ear
Clinical Context
Used for perilymphatic fistula repair, endolymphatic sac decompression, or labyrinthitis drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.01 |
| Total RVU | 2.01 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.01, this code ranks in the 14th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 69801?
CPT 69801 (Incise inner ear) is a Surgery code. Surgical incision of the inner ear (labyrinth) to access or drain inner ear pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 69801?
The work RVU for CPT 69801 is 2.01. This code is primarily used by neurotology, otolaryngology.
When is CPT 69801 used?
Used for perilymphatic fistula repair, endolymphatic sac decompression, or labyrinthitis drainage.
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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.