H61.399

What This Code Means

This code describes a narrowing or tightening of the ear canal (the tube leading to the eardrum) that developed after birth, when the specific cause is not documented and the affected ear is not specified. This condition can result from scarring, inflammation, or bone growth and may affect hearing or ear cleaning.

Coding Tips

• •Use this code only when the stenosis is acquired (not present from birth) and the specific etiology is unknown or not documented; if the cause is known (such as post-surgical, post-traumatic, or due to chronic otitis), use a more specific code
• •The 'unspecified ear' designation means the documentation does not indicate whether the condition affects the right ear, left ear, or both; if laterality is documented, select H61.391 (right) or H61.392 (left) instead