ICD-10 Code H74.21 – Discontinuity and dislocation of right ear ossicles (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.21 – Discontinuity and dislocation of right ear ossicles
What it is
This code identifies a structural problem in the right middle ear ossicles, where the tiny hearing bones are separated, displaced, or both. It reflects an anatomic abnormality that can interrupt sound conduction.
Clinical signs
Patients often have conductive hearing loss, reduced sound transmission, or abnormal findings on ear examination or imaging. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H74.21 when the record clearly documents discontinuity or dislocation of the right ear ossicles, such as after trauma, chronic ear disease, or prior surgery. You should code it when the provider identifies the right-sided ossicular abnormality as the condition being treated or evaluated. Check documentation if laterality or the exact ossicular defect is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific hearing loss without documented ossicular disruption. It is also not appropriate when the abnormality is on the left side or when the chart only says “middle ear problem.”
Coding tip
Verify laterality and the provider’s wording, because right-sided ossicular disruption is specific and easy to miscoded.