Cerumen removal

Can a medical assistant perform an ear lavage without instrumentation – CPT® code 69209?

re: Cerumen removal

Per CPT® Assistant February 2016 page 14

Frequently Asked Questions:Surgery: Auditory System

Question: Who may perform the procedure described by code 69209, Removal impacted cerumen using irrigation/lavage, unilateral? In addition, does it require the use of instrumentation and magnification?

Answer:The procedure described by code 69209 may be performed by a physician or any qualified health care professional, including clinical staff. The procedure does not require the use of instrumentation and/or magnification. When the removal of impacted cerumen requires instrumentation, report code 69210, Removal impacted cerumen requiring instrumentation, unilateral. Note: For cerumen removal that is not impacted, report an E/M service as appropriate.