Absence of eustachian tube

This code signifies the congenital absence of the eustachian tube, a critical structure connecting the middle ear to the nasopharynx. This anomaly can lead to chronic middle ear dysfunction, hearing impairment, and recurrent infections due to impaired pressure equalization and fluid drainage.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states the congenital absence or agenesis of the eustachian tube. This is typically identified during otologic examination, imaging studies (e.g., CT scan), or surgical exploration for chronic middle ear pathologies.

• Ensure documentation specifies "absence" or "agenesis" rather than just "dysfunction" or "obstruction."
• Do not confuse with acquired eustachian tube obstruction or dysfunction, which are coded elsewhere.
• Code any associated hearing loss or middle ear conditions separately, linking them to this underlying anatomical defect.