ICD-10 Code H73.811 – Atrophic flaccid tympanic membrane, right ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H73.811 – Atrophic flaccid tympanic membrane, right ear
What it is
This code identifies thinning and loss of normal tension in the right tympanic membrane, making it flaccid or atrophic. It describes an ear drum abnormality, not an infection or perforation.
Clinical signs
Documentation may note a thin, retracted, or overly compliant right tympanic membrane on otoscopic exam. Hearing complaints may be present, but clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H73.811 when the provider documents atrophic or flaccid tympanic membrane specifically in the right ear. It is appropriate for exam findings recorded as a structural tympanic membrane change without another more specific diagnosis. If the note only says “abnormal eardrum,” check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for tympanic membrane perforation, acute otitis media, or nonspecific ear pain. If the record does not clearly identify the right ear or the atrophic flaccid finding, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the laterality exactly as documented; if the side is unclear, do not assume right ear.