ICD-10 Code H61.819 – Exostosis of external canal, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.819 – Exostosis of external canal, unspecified ear
What it is
This code identifies a bony overgrowth in the external ear canal when the affected ear is not specified. It is used for documentation of exostosis of the ear canal without laterality details.
Clinical signs
Patients may have narrowing of the canal, recurrent blockage, or conductive hearing complaints. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H61.819 when the provider documents exostosis of the external canal but does not specify right or left ear. It also fits encounters where the condition is confirmed and the record lacks laterality. If the note describes another ear disorder as the primary issue, code that condition instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for exostosis with a specified ear, because laterality should be coded when documented. Do not confuse it with cerumen impaction, otitis externa, or other canal masses unless the provider states exostosis.
Coding tip
Check the note for laterality first; unspecified ear codes are appropriate only when the documentation truly omits it.