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Official Description

Labyrinthotomy, with perfusion of vestibuloactive drug(s); with mastoidectomy

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 69802 is known as labyrinthotomy with perfusion of vestibuloactive drug(s) and is performed in conjunction with a mastoidectomy. This surgical intervention is primarily indicated for the treatment of Meniere's disease, a condition characterized by episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. The labyrinth, which is the inner ear structure, consists of a complex system of canals and cavities that play a crucial role in balance and hearing. It is divided into two main components: the bony labyrinth, which provides structural support, and the membranous labyrinth, which contains the sensory organs. In this procedure, the surgeon accesses the inner ear through a transmastoid approach, which involves making an incision behind the ear to expose the mastoid bone. The mastoidectomy entails the removal of the air cell system within the mastoid bone, allowing for direct access to the inner ear structures. Once the labyrinth is accessed, it is opened and examined for any abnormalities. Subsequently, a needle or catheter is introduced into the inner ear, through which vestibuloactive drugs are instilled. These medications aim to alleviate the debilitating symptoms associated with Meniere's disease by targeting the vestibular system. The meticulous nature of this procedure requires the use of an operating microscope and specialized surgical instruments to ensure precision and minimize complications.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The labyrinthotomy with perfusion of vestibuloactive drug(s) is indicated for the treatment of Meniere's disease, which is characterized by the following symptoms and conditions:

  • Meniere's Disease - A disorder of the inner ear that leads to episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.

2. Procedure

The procedure involves several critical steps to ensure effective treatment of Meniere's disease:

  • Step 1: Incision and Mastoidectomy - The surgeon begins by making an incision behind the ear to access the mastoid bone. This incision allows for the removal of the mastoid air cell system, which is essential for gaining access to the inner ear structures. The mastoidectomy is performed meticulously to avoid damaging surrounding tissues and to provide a clear pathway to the labyrinth.
  • Step 2: Accessing the Inner Ear - Once the mastoid bone is opened, the surgeon carefully navigates through the middle ear to reach the labyrinth. This step involves the use of an operating microscope and specialized microscopic surgical tools to ensure precision. The bony and membranous labyrinth is then opened, allowing for direct examination and intervention.
  • Step 3: Drug Instillation - After accessing the labyrinth, a needle or catheter is introduced into the inner ear. Vestibuloactive drugs are then instilled through this access point. The purpose of these drugs is to alleviate the symptoms associated with Meniere's disease by targeting the vestibular system, thereby providing relief from vertigo and other related symptoms.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care involves monitoring the patient for any immediate complications and assessing the effectiveness of the drug instillation. Patients may experience some discomfort or temporary changes in hearing following the procedure. It is essential for healthcare providers to provide instructions regarding activity restrictions and signs of potential complications that should prompt immediate medical attention. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled to evaluate the patient's recovery and the long-term effectiveness of the treatment.

Short Descr INCISE INNER EAR
Medium Descr LABYRINTHOTOMY MASTOIDECTOMY
Long Descr Labyrinthotomy, with perfusion of vestibuloactive drug(s); with mastoidectomy
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Discontinued Code
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 24 - Mastoidectomy
Date
Action
Notes
2012-01-01 Deleted Deleted
2011-01-01 Changed Long description revised. Medium description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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