ICD-10 Code H95.03 – Recurrent cholesteatoma of postmastoidectomy cavity, bilateral ears (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H95.03 – Recurrent cholesteatoma of postmastoidectomy cavity, bilateral ears
What it is
This code identifies a recurrent cholesteatoma that develops in the postmastoidectomy cavity of both ears. It refers to residual or returning keratinizing tissue after prior mastoid surgery.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly noted findings include chronic ear drainage, debris in the mastoid cavity, and otoscopic evidence of recurrent cholesteatoma after surgery.
When to use this code
Use H95.03 when the provider documents recurrent cholesteatoma in the bilateral postmastoidectomy cavities. It fits follow-up visits, imaging reports, or operative findings confirming recurrence after prior mastoidectomy. If laterality or recurrence is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for a primary cholesteatoma without prior mastoidectomy, or for disease limited to one ear. If the record does not confirm recurrence in a postmastoidectomy cavity, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both recurrence and bilateral postmastoidectomy involvement before assigning H95.03.