Attic perforation of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear

This code signifies a perforation located specifically in the attic (pars flaccida) region of the tympanic membrane. This is a defect or hole in the upper, more pliable part of the eardrum, distinct from perforations in the pars tensa. The "unspecified ear" indicates that the laterality (left or right) is not documented.

Use this code when documentation clearly specifies a perforation of the attic (pars flaccida) of the tympanic membrane, and the physician's notes do not indicate which ear is affected. This is typically diagnosed via otoscopy or otomicroscopy. It's often associated with chronic otitis media or cholesteatoma.

• Do not use this code if the documentation specifies a perforation of the pars tensa; use codes from the H72.0- series instead.
• Always attempt to clarify laterality (left, right, or bilateral) with the provider to use a more specific code (H72.11, H72.12, H72.13).
• Consider co-occurring conditions like chronic otitis media (H66.xx) or cholesteatoma (H71.xx) and sequence appropriately.