69145 Ear canal excision Medicare reimbursement rates in Idaho

This service removes a lesion from the external auditory canal rather than sampling it solely for diagnosis. An otolaryngologist typically performs the excision in an operating room or, when clinically appropriate, another procedural setting. The operative record should identify the lesion’s canal location and describe its extent, the tissues removed, and any tympanic membrane involvement. A lesion such as a canal mass may require excision when removal, rather than biopsy alone, is the planned treatment.

Select this code for the documented canal lesion excision; use a simple-excision or extensive-excision sibling when the operative service matches that distinct level. The record should support the scope of surgery and whether the tympanic membrane was involved. Medicare assigns a 90-day global period, including the day-before preoperative visit and 90 days of related postoperative care. For multiple procedures in one session, the highest-valued procedure is paid in full and other procedures are subject to the standard 50% reduction. Bilateral reporting with modifier 50 is paid at 150%. Assistant-at-surgery payment is restricted; co-surgeons and team surgery are not permitted.