Traumatic rupture of left ear drum, initial encounter

This code signifies a tear or perforation of the tympanic membrane in the left ear resulting from an external force or injury. This condition typically leads to sudden hearing loss, ear pain, and sometimes tinnitus or discharge.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a newly diagnosed traumatic rupture of the left eardrum, such as from a direct blow, barotrauma, or foreign object insertion. Documentation should clearly state the traumatic etiology, the specific ear affected (left), and that this is the initial treatment encounter.

• Ensure documentation specifies "left" ear; differentiate from right (S09.21XA) or unspecified (S09.29XA).
• Confirm the encounter is "initial" for this specific injury; subsequent care would use a different seventh character.
• Look for associated external cause codes (e.g., W22.02XA for striking against an object) to provide a complete picture of the injury.