Chronic inflammation of postmastoidectomy cavity, right ear

This code signifies a persistent inflammatory process occurring within the surgical cavity created after a mastoidectomy procedure in the right ear. This inflammation is long-standing, rather than acute, and can be associated with symptoms such as discharge, pain, or hearing loss. It indicates a complication or sequela of a previous mastoidectomy.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states chronic inflammation of the postmastoidectomy cavity in the right ear. This typically occurs in patients who have undergone a mastoidectomy and subsequently develop ongoing issues within the surgical site. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the chronicity and laterality of the inflammation.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "chronic" inflammation; acute inflammation would be coded differently.
• Verify the laterality (right ear) is clearly documented.
• Do not use this code for inflammation of the external or middle ear that is not directly related to a post-surgical mastoidectomy cavity.