ICD-10 Code H69.03 – Patulous Eustachian tube, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H69.03 – Patulous Eustachian tube, bilateral
What it is
H69.03 identifies a bilateral patulous Eustachian tube, meaning the tubes stay abnormally open instead of closing normally. This can let sound and pressure changes pass too freely between the nasopharynx and middle ear.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include autophony, where the patient hears their own voice or breathing unusually loudly. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmation of bilateral involvement.
When to use this code
Use H69.03 when the provider documents patulous Eustachian tube affecting both ears. It is appropriate when the note clearly describes this diagnosis, with or without symptoms such as autophony or aural fullness. Check documentation if laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction, otitis media, or nonspecific ear pressure without a documented patulous Eustachian tube. If the record does not specify bilateral disease, choose the documented laterality.
Coding tip
Assign H69.03 only when the chart explicitly states bilateral patulous Eustachian tube; otherwise, verify laterality before coding.