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Official Description

Impression and custom preparation; auricular prosthesis

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

An auricular prosthesis is a specialized medical device designed to replace all or part of the outer ear, which may be necessary due to congenital defects, trauma, or surgical removal. The process begins with obtaining an impression of the contralateral outer ear, which serves as a reference for creating a mold. In cases where the contralateral ear is not available or suitable, an impression from a morphologically similar individual can be utilized to ensure a proper fit and aesthetic appearance. Once the impression is taken, a mold is created, which is then used to fabricate a custom prosthetic outer ear. This prosthesis is typically made from medical-grade silicone, allowing for a realistic appearance that can be color-matched to the patient's skin tone. The final prosthetic outer ear is secured to the patient using either adhesive or an osseointegrated craniofacial implant, providing a stable and functional solution for individuals requiring ear reconstruction.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The auricular prosthesis procedure is indicated for patients who have experienced loss or deformity of the outer ear due to various reasons. The following conditions may warrant the use of this procedure:

  • Congenital Defects - Patients born with malformations of the outer ear may require a prosthesis to achieve a more typical appearance.
  • Trauma - Individuals who have suffered injuries resulting in the loss or significant alteration of the outer ear may benefit from this reconstructive option.
  • Surgical Removal - Patients who have undergone surgical procedures that necessitated the removal of the outer ear may need a prosthetic replacement for aesthetic and functional purposes.

2. Procedure

The procedure for creating and fitting an auricular prosthesis involves several key steps that ensure a precise and effective outcome. Each step is critical to achieving a prosthesis that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

  • Step 1: Impression Taking The first step involves obtaining an impression of the contralateral outer ear. This is done using a soft, pliable material that captures the detailed contours and shape of the ear. If the contralateral ear is not available, an impression from a morphologically similar individual may be used to ensure that the prosthesis will match the patient's anatomy closely.
  • Step 2: Mold Creation After the impression is taken, a mold is created from the impression material. This mold serves as the foundation for fabricating the custom prosthetic ear. It is essential that the mold accurately reflects the dimensions and features of the ear to ensure a proper fit.
  • Step 3: Fabrication of the Prosthesis Using the mold, a custom prosthetic outer ear is fabricated from medical-grade silicone. This material is chosen for its durability, flexibility, and ability to be color-matched to the patient's skin tone, providing a natural appearance. The fabrication process may involve layering techniques to achieve the desired texture and color.
  • Step 4: Attachment of the Prosthesis Once the prosthetic ear is completed, it is attached to the patient. This can be done using a strong adhesive that allows for easy application and removal or through an osseointegrated craniofacial implant, which provides a more permanent solution by anchoring the prosthesis directly to the bone.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, patients may require specific post-procedure care to ensure the proper healing and integration of the prosthesis. It is important to monitor the attachment site for any signs of irritation or infection, especially if an adhesive is used. Patients should be advised on how to clean the prosthesis and the surrounding area gently. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to assess the fit and comfort of the prosthesis, as adjustments may be needed over time. Additionally, patients should be educated on the importance of avoiding excessive moisture and trauma to the area to maintain the integrity of the prosthesis and the health of the skin underneath.

Short Descr IMPRES&PREP AURICULAR PROSTH
Medium Descr IMPRESSION & PREPARATION AURICULAR PROSTHESIS
Long Descr Impression and custom preparation; auricular prosthesis
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Office-based surgical procedure added to ASC list in CY 2008 or later with MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs; payment based on MPFS nonfacility PE RVUs.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6B - Minor procedures - musculoskeletal
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 32 - Other non-OR therapeutic procedures on nose, mouth and pharynx
52 Reduced services: under certain circumstances a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the physician or other qualified health care professional. under these circumstances the service provided can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 52, signifying that the service is reduced. this provides a means of reporting reduced services without disturbing the identification of the basic service. note: for hospital outpatient reporting of a previously scheduled procedure/service that is partially reduced or cancelled as a result of extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient prior to or after administration of anesthesia, see modifiers 73 and 74 (see modifiers approved for asc hospital outpatient use).
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
Date
Action
Notes
2025-01-01 Changed Short Description changed.
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
1991-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1991.
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