ICD-10 Code H74.23 – Discontinuity and dislocation of ear ossicles, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.23 – Discontinuity and dislocation of ear ossicles, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies a bilateral abnormality of the middle-ear ossicles, where the tiny hearing bones are disrupted or displaced on both sides. It reflects an anatomic problem that can interfere with sound transmission.
Clinical signs
Patients commonly present with conductive hearing loss, often with a history of ear trauma, chronic ear disease, or prior surgery. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and objective hearing or imaging findings when available.
When to use this code
Use H74.23 when the provider documents discontinuity or dislocation of the ossicles in both ears, such as malleus, incus, or stapes disruption. Apply it when the diagnosis is confirmed or clearly stated in the record. If laterality or the exact ossicular problem is not documented, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral ossicular injury or for nonspecific hearing loss without documented ossicular abnormality. Check documentation if the record only mentions middle-ear disease without confirmed discontinuity or dislocation.
Coding tip
Code H74.23 only when both ears are specifically documented as affected; otherwise, verify laterality before assigning the code.