ICD-10 Code H74.2 – Discontinuity and dislocation of ear ossicles (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.2 – Discontinuity and dislocation of ear ossicles
What it is
H74.2 identifies a structural problem in the middle ear where one or more ossicles are separated, misaligned, or displaced. This can interrupt sound transmission and contribute to conductive hearing loss.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include hearing loss, often conductive, and abnormal middle-ear mechanics on examination or testing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record specifically documents discontinuity or dislocation of the ear ossicles, such as after trauma, chronic ear disease, or surgery. Apply it when the provider identifies ossicular disruption as the diagnosed condition, not just hearing loss. Check documentation if the chart only notes nonspecific middle-ear pathology.
Do not use for
Do not use H74.2 for routine hearing loss without documented ossicular disruption. It is also not the right code for unrelated external or inner ear disorders; check documentation.
Coding tip
Code H74.2 only when the provider clearly documents ossicular discontinuity or dislocation, and capture any associated cause separately if recorded.