ICD-10 Code H68.132 – Extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of Eustachian tube, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H68.132 – Extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction of Eustachian tube, left ear
What it is
This code identifies blockage of the left Eustachian tube caused by external pressure on the cartilaginous portion. It describes an anatomic obstruction rather than infection or fluid in the middle ear.
Clinical signs
Patients may have ear fullness, muffled hearing, pressure, or popping with swallowing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H68.132 when the provider documents extrinsic cartilaginous obstruction of the left Eustachian tube. Code it when the note clearly links the obstruction to the left ear and does not describe a different Eustachian tube disorder. Check documentation if the cause is only suspected.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for right or bilateral Eustachian tube obstruction, or for unspecified laterality. Do not assign it when the record describes otitis media, effusion, or another unrelated ear condition.
Coding tip
Verify laterality and the exact wording “extrinsic cartilagenous obstruction” before assigning H68.132.