ICD-10 Code H72.82 – Total perforations of tympanic membrane (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H72.82 – Total perforations of tympanic membrane
What it is
H72.82 identifies a complete perforation of the tympanic membrane, or eardrum. Use it when documentation states the perforation involves the full membrane rather than a partial tear.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include hearing loss, ear pain, drainage, or visible tympanic membrane defect on otoscopic exam.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a total perforation of the tympanic membrane, including traumatic or nontraumatic cases if no more specific code applies. Code it from exam findings, operative notes, or specialist documentation that clearly describes a complete eardrum perforation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for partial tympanic membrane perforations or when the record only says “perforation” without specifying total involvement. Check documentation if the site, cause, or laterality is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify that the note explicitly supports “total” perforation before assigning H72.82.