CPT® Code 69552

The CPT® Code 69552 refers to the excision of an aural glomus tumor using a transmastoid approach. An aural glomus tumor is a type of benign neoplasm that originates from the paraganglionic cells found in glomus tissue, which is located near the temporal bone of the skull. These tumors are categorized into two main types based on their origin: glomus jugulare tumors, which arise from the adventitia of the jugular bulb, and glomus tympanicum tumors, which develop from glomus bodies along the tympanic branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve. The choice of surgical approach for excising these tumors is influenced by their size and location. The transmastoid approach, as indicated by CPT® Code 69552, is specifically utilized when the tumor has extended from the middle ear into the mastoid bone. This procedure involves making an incision behind the ear to access the mastoid area, allowing for the removal of tumor tissue that may have infiltrated the mastoid cells. The excision aims to eliminate the tumor while preserving surrounding structures and maintaining hearing function whenever possible.