ICD-10 Code H74.313 – Ankylosis of Ear Ossicles, Bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.313 – Ankylosis of ear ossicles, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies abnormal fixation of the middle-ear ossicles on both sides. The tiny bones no longer move normally, which can reduce sound transmission and cause conductive hearing loss.
Clinical signs
Patients commonly present with bilateral conductive hearing loss, often confirmed by audiology and otologic examination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the exact findings and whether the ankylosis is congenital or acquired.
When to use this code
Use H74.313 when the provider documents bilateral ankylosis of the ear ossicles, or an equivalent diagnosis such as fixation of the ossicular chain in both ears. Apply it when the condition is the active documented reason for evaluation, hearing assessment, or follow-up. Check documentation if the record is unclear about laterality.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific hearing loss without documented ossicular ankylosis. Do not assign it when only one ear is affected or when the chart describes another middle-ear disorder instead.
Coding tip
Confirm bilateral laterality in the provider note before coding, and query if the record only states ossicular fixation without side specification.