ICD-10 Code H74.319 – Ankylosis of Ear Ossicles, Unspecified Ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.319 – Ankylosis of ear ossicles, unspecified ear
What it is
H74.319 identifies abnormal fixation of the middle-ear ossicles, where the tiny bones cannot move normally. Use it when the ear side is not specified or the record does not state left or right.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include conductive hearing loss, reduced sound transmission, and abnormal middle-ear mobility on examination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents ankylosis or fixation of the ear ossicles and does not specify the affected ear. It also fits cases where the chart confirms ossicular immobility as the cause of conductive hearing loss. Do not assume laterality if it is not documented.
Do not use for
Do not use it for otosclerosis unless the record specifically supports ossicular ankylosis rather than stapes fixation from another cause. Check documentation when the diagnosis is uncertain or the ear side is known.
Coding tip
Verify laterality first; if the note identifies left or right ear, choose the more specific code instead of H74.319.