ICD-10 Code H72.00 – Central perforation of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H72.00 – Central perforation of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear
What it is
H72.00 identifies a central hole in the tympanic membrane, or eardrum, without specification of the right or left ear. It means the perforation is not marginal and is documented as involving the central portion.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include a visible central eardrum defect on otoscopy, with possible conductive hearing loss, ear discharge, or a history of infection or trauma.
When to use this code
Use H72.00 when the record states a central tympanic membrane perforation and does not identify the affected ear. This code fits cases documented as perforation, hole, or rupture of the central eardrum. If laterality is recorded, code the specified ear instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for marginal or attic perforations, or when the documentation names a different type of tympanic membrane defect. Check documentation if the ear side is specified or if the finding is only suspected.
Coding tip
Confirm both the perforation type and laterality in the note before assigning H72.00.