ICD-10 Code H74.22 – Discontinuity and dislocation of left ear ossicles (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.22 – Discontinuity and dislocation of left ear ossicles
What it is
H74.22 identifies a structural problem in the middle ear bones on the left side. It means the ossicles are no longer aligned normally, which can disrupt sound transmission.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include conductive hearing loss, often with a history of ear trauma, chronic ear disease, or prior ear surgery. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record specifically documents discontinuity or dislocation of the left ossicles, such as malleus, incus, or stapes separation. Apply it for confirmed anatomic abnormality on the left side, not for nonspecific hearing loss alone. Check documentation if laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use it for right or bilateral ossicular problems, or for unspecified middle ear disease without documented ossicular disruption. Do not assign it when the chart only mentions hearing loss with no structural diagnosis.
Coding tip
Verify both laterality and the exact ossicular abnormality in the operative note, imaging report, or specialist assessment before coding.