© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
The procedure described by CPT® Code 69401 refers to the transnasal inflation of the Eustachian tube without the use of catheterization. The Eustachian tube is a critical anatomical structure that connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx, playing a vital role in equalizing air pressure in the middle ear and facilitating the drainage of mucus. This tube opens and closes during swallowing, which helps maintain proper pressure balance. When the Eustachian tube becomes obstructed, it can lead to the trapping of air in the middle ear, resulting in negative pressure that can retract the tympanic membrane, commonly known as the eardrum. Chronic obstruction, often termed Eustachian tube dysfunction, may lead to fluid accumulation in the middle ear, potentially causing hearing loss. In the context of CPT® Code 69401, the procedure involves the insertion of a catheter into the nasal passage, which is then advanced to the nasopharyngeal wall and manipulated to access the Eustachian tube. This method allows for the inflation of the Eustachian tube with air, thereby relieving the blockage and restoring normal function. The transnasal approach may be enhanced with the use of a rigid or flexible scope, providing better visualization and precision during the procedure. This code is distinct from other related codes, such as 69400, which involves insufflation without catheterization, and 69405, which involves catheterization through the tympanic membrane. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate coding and billing in medical practice.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The procedure associated with CPT® Code 69401 is indicated for patients experiencing Eustachian tube dysfunction, which may manifest as symptoms such as:
The procedure for CPT® Code 69401 involves several key steps to ensure effective inflation of the Eustachian tube:
After the completion of the transnasal Eustachian tube inflation, patients may be advised to avoid activities that could increase pressure in the ears, such as flying or diving, for a short period. It is also important to monitor for any signs of complications, such as persistent pain, bleeding, or signs of infection. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to evaluate the success of the procedure and to determine if further intervention is necessary. Patients are typically encouraged to report any ongoing symptoms or concerns to their healthcare provider to ensure appropriate management.
| Short Descr | INFLATE MIDDLE EAR CANAL | Medium Descr | EUSTACHIAN TUBE NFLTJ TRANSNSL W/O CATHJ | Long Descr | Eustachian tube inflation, transnasal; without catheterization | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure | 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 | 9 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 1 - Statutory 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 | Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P6C - Minor procedures - other (Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 26 - Other therapeutic ear procedures |