Congenital absence, atresia and stricture of auditory canal

This code signifies a birth defect characterized by the complete absence, abnormal closure (atresia), or narrowing (stricture) of the external auditory canal. This congenital anomaly can result in conductive hearing loss due to the obstruction of sound transmission to the middle ear.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a congenital malformation of the external ear canal, such as canal aplasia or stenosis, identified at birth or shortly thereafter. This code is appropriate for patients presenting with conductive hearing loss directly attributable to this structural defect.

• Differentiate from acquired strictures or obstructions of the external auditory canal, which would be coded differently.
• Consider co-occurring congenital anomalies of the ear or other systems, as these may require additional codes.
• Ensure documentation specifies the external auditory canal to avoid confusion with middle or inner ear anomalies.