ICD-10 Code H61.30 – Acquired stenosis of external ear canal, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.30 – Acquired stenosis of external ear canal, unspecified
What it is
H61.30 identifies narrowing of the external ear canal that develops after birth, without a specified cause or side. Use it when documentation states acquired stenosis or narrowing of the ear canal and gives no further detail.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a visibly narrowed ear canal, reduced ability to examine the tympanic membrane, and possible conductive hearing loss. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record documents acquired stenosis of the external auditory canal but does not identify whether it is unilateral or bilateral. It also fits notes that describe post-inflammatory or post-traumatic narrowing without a more specific code. If the cause or laterality is documented elsewhere, code to the highest available specificity.
Do not use for
Do not use it for congenital ear canal narrowing or for simple earwax blockage. Check documentation if the note describes another external ear disorder instead of true acquired stenosis.
Coding tip
Verify that the stenosis is acquired and unspecified before assigning H61.30.