H90.72 Mixed conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, unilateral, left ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side

Name of the Condition

• Mixed Conductive and Sensorineural Hearing Loss, Unilateral, Left Ear, with Unrestricted Hearing on the Contralateral Side
• ICD-10 code: H90.72

Summary

• This condition involves hearing loss in the left ear due to problems in both sound conduction and nerve signal transmission, while the right ear maintains normal hearing function.

Causes

• The condition may result from a combination of middle ear issues (such as fluid buildup or structural abnormalities) and damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve (often due to noise exposure, aging, or head trauma).

Risk Factors

• Age, family history of hearing loss, exposure to loud noises, and prior ear infections can increase the risk of developing this type of hearing loss.

Symptoms

• Difficulty hearing or understanding speech, especially on the affected side, and possible ear fullness or tinnitus in the left ear.

Diagnosis

• Diagnostic approaches include audiometric tests to assess hearing levels, tympanometry to evaluate middle ear function, and imaging techniques like MRI or CT to identify structural causes.

Treatment Options

• Hearing aids or assistive listening devices depending on severity.
• Surgical interventions such as tympanoplasty or cochlear implants in more advanced cases.
• Auditory rehabilitation therapies to improve communication skills.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment and management, individuals can maintain a good quality of life, though regular hearing evaluations are critical to monitor changes in hearing capacity.

Complications

• If untreated, it can lead to communication difficulties, social withdrawal, or academic challenges.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Protecting ears from loud noises, treating ear infections promptly, and regular hearing check-ups can help manage or prevent hearing loss progression.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Noticeable changes in hearing capability, persistent ear pain, or balance problems should prompt consultation with a healthcare provider.

Additional Resources

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the differentiation between conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss is clear.
• Verify the documentation specifies unilateral loss and the affected side, as well as the normal hearing status of the contralateral ear.
• Double-check that supporting documentation aligns with the coded diagnosis to prevent errors.