ICD-10 Code H90.1 – Conductive hearing loss, unilateral with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H90.1 – Conductive hearing loss, unilateral with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side
What it is
Use this code for conductive hearing loss affecting one ear, while the other ear hears normally. The problem lies in sound transmission through the outer or middle ear on the affected side.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include reduced hearing in one ear, often with normal hearing in the opposite ear. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Assign H90.1 when documentation clearly states unilateral conductive hearing loss and notes unrestricted hearing in the contralateral ear. Use it for cases such as middle-ear pathology or other conductive causes limited to one side. Check documentation if the record does not specify laterality or hearing status of the other ear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for bilateral hearing loss or sensorineural/mixed hearing loss. If the diagnosis does not confirm conductive loss with normal hearing on the opposite side, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and type of hearing loss before coding, because missing one detail can change the code.