ICD-10 Code H74.323 – Partial loss of ear ossicles, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.323 – Partial loss of ear ossicles, bilateral
What it is
H74.323 identifies partial loss of the tiny middle-ear bones on both sides. This code describes a bilateral structural abnormality that can affect sound transmission.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Hearing loss, conductive hearing difficulty, or abnormal middle-ear findings may be noted, but the record should support bilateral ossicular loss.
When to use this code
Use H74.323 when the clinician documents partial loss of ear ossicles in both ears. Apply it for confirmed bilateral ossicular deficiency on exam, imaging, or operative findings.
If the chart only mentions hearing loss without identifying ossicular loss, do not assign this code. Check documentation for laterality and whether the loss is partial rather than complete.
Do not use for
Do not use it for unilateral ossicular loss, complete ossicular absence, or nonspecific conductive hearing loss. If the documentation is unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both laterality and the word “partial” before coding, because the exact anatomic detail determines whether H74.323 is appropriate.