ICD-10 Code H61.81 – Exostosis of external canal (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.81 – Exostosis of external canal
What it is
H61.81 identifies bony overgrowths in the external auditory canal. These exostoses can narrow the canal and may be incidental or cause obstruction.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include visible canal narrowing, recurrent water trapping, wax retention, or conductive hearing complaints.
When to use this code
Use H61.81 when the record documents exostosis of the external canal, such as a clinician describing bony growths in the ear canal. Code it when the finding is the reason for the visit or is specifically assessed. Check documentation if the note only mentions ear symptoms without confirming exostosis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for simple cerumen impaction, otitis externa, or other non-bony canal lesions. If the diagnosis is different or unspecified, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm that the provider documented exostosis, not just canal narrowing or earwax, before assigning H61.81.