ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH61.303

H61.303

Billable

Acquired stenosis of external ear canal, unspecified, bilateral

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.303 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired stenosis of external ear canal, unspecified, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired stenosis of the external ear canal refers to the narrowing of the ear canal that occurs due to various factors such as chronic inflammation, trauma, or previous surgical interventions. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms including hearing loss, discomfort, and recurrent ear infections. The bilateral designation indicates that both ear canals are affected, which may complicate the clinical picture. Patients may present with symptoms such as a sensation of fullness in the ears, difficulty hearing, and a history of recurrent otitis externa or otitis media. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough otoscopic examination, audiometric testing, and possibly imaging studies to assess the extent of the stenosis. Management may include medical treatment for any underlying infections, surgical intervention to widen the ear canal, and ongoing monitoring to prevent recurrence. The complexity of this condition lies in its multifactorial nature and the need for careful assessment to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Bilateral nature complicates diagnosis and treatment.
  • Requires differentiation from congenital stenosis.
  • Potential for associated conditions like otitis externa.
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of symptoms and history.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of clinical findings.
  • Lack of clear treatment plans or follow-up notes.
  • Inconsistent coding of bilateral versus unilateral conditions.
  • Failure to document associated conditions like otitis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of ear symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic ear infections, hearing loss, or post-surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the bilateral nature and any associated conditions.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Audiometric test results, patient history regarding hearing loss, and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of hearing loss in patients with known ear canal stenosis.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of stenosis on hearing and any recommendations for further evaluation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.303 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, H61
  • 303 should be used when the stenosis is acquired and bilateral, with no specific underlying cause documented
  • Coders should ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical findings and that any associated conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.303 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69631CPT Code

Canalplasty

Clinical Scenario

Performed to widen the ear canal in cases of stenosis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should document the extent of stenosis and any complications.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like acquired stenosis of the external ear canal, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of ear-related disorders.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like acquired stenosis of the external ear canal, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of ear-related disorders.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like acquired stenosis of the external ear canal, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of ear-related disorders.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of acquired stenosis of the external ear canal?

Common causes include chronic inflammation from infections, trauma, and previous surgical procedures that may lead to scarring and narrowing of the ear canal.