Other chronic suppurative otitis media, bilateral

This code signifies a persistent, purulent inflammation of the middle ear affecting both ears, but not specified as tubotympanic, attic-antral, or other specific types of chronic suppurative otitis media. It indicates a long-standing infection characterized by discharge and often associated with tympanic membrane perforation.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "chronic suppurative otitis media" affecting both ears, and no further specificity regarding the type (e.g., tubotympanic, attic-antral) is provided. This diagnosis is typically supported by findings of chronic otorrhea, tympanic membrane perforation, and evidence of middle ear inflammation on otoscopic examination or imaging.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, a unilateral or unspecified code may be more appropriate.
• Distinguish from acute suppurative otitis media (H66.0-) and other specified chronic suppurative otitis media (H66.1-, H66.2-).
• Always look for more specific documentation regarding the type of chronic suppurative otitis media before defaulting to this "other" category.