ICD-10 Code H61.312 – Acquired stenosis of left external ear canal secondary to trauma (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.312 – Acquired stenosis of left external ear canal secondary to trauma
What it is
This code identifies an acquired narrowing of the left external ear canal caused by trauma. It is used when documentation shows the stenosis developed after an injury rather than being present from birth.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, the record may describe a narrowed left ear canal with reduced visualization, possible conductive hearing difficulty, or post-traumatic scarring.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents acquired stenosis of the left external auditory canal and links it to prior trauma. It is appropriate for follow-up visits, specialty evaluations, or preoperative assessments when the left side is specifically identified.
Check documentation if the cause is unclear or if the narrowing is described without laterality. You should also confirm that the condition is acquired, not congenital or due to another ear disorder.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for congenital ear canal narrowing or for unspecified ear canal stenosis. If the chart does not clearly connect the condition to trauma, check documentation before coding.
Coding tip
Verify both laterality and traumatic cause in the provider note before assigning H61.312.