Partial loss of ear ossicles, left ear

This code signifies an incomplete absence or destruction of the small bones (malleus, incus, stapes) within the middle ear, specifically affecting the left ear. This condition typically results in conductive hearing loss due to impaired sound transmission.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a partial loss or erosion of the ossicles in the left ear, often identified during otoscopic examination, audiometry, or surgical exploration. This diagnosis is frequently associated with chronic otitis media, trauma, or cholesteatoma.

• Ensure laterality is explicitly documented as "left ear" to support this specific code.
• Distinguish from total ossicular loss (H74.31-) or ossicular discontinuity without loss.
• Code any underlying cause, such as chronic otitis media, as an additional diagnosis.