CPT® Code 69910

A labyrinthectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the inner ear, also known as the labyrinth, which is a complex structure located within the petrous portion of the temporal bone. The labyrinth is composed of two main layers: the bony labyrinth, which provides a rigid outer structure, and the membranous labyrinth, which contains the sensory organs responsible for balance and hearing. The labyrinth is further divided into specific areas, including the vestibule, cochlea, and semicircular canals, each playing a crucial role in the body's equilibrium and auditory functions. This procedure is primarily indicated for patients suffering from Meniere's disease, a condition characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. The labyrinthectomy effectively alleviates symptoms by excising the inner ear structures that contribute to balance disturbances. It is important to note that this procedure is only performed on patients who have little to no residual hearing in the affected ear, as the removal of the inner ear structures results in complete deafness in that ear. The surgical approach for this procedure can vary; for CPT® Code 69910, the transmastoid approach is utilized, which involves making an incision behind the ear to access the mastoid bone and subsequently the inner ear, allowing for the complete excision of both the bony and membranous labyrinth.