ICD-10 Coding for Hearing Loss Left Ear(H90.0, H90.12, H90.12B)

Explore ICD-10 codes for hearing loss in the left ear, including conductive and sensorineural types. Learn documentation requirements and coding tips.

Also known as:
Unilateral Hearing Loss Left EarLeft Ear Deafness
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Hearing Loss Left Ear

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescription
H90.12Conductive hearing loss, unilateral, left ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side
H90.42Sensorineural hearing loss, unilateral, left ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral side

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information

Essential facts and insights aboutHearing Loss Left Ear

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions

Sensorineural hearing loss, unilateral, left ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral sideH90.42

Use when sensorineural loss is confirmed by absent OAEs and preserved acoustic reflexes.

Conductive hearing loss, unilateral, left ear, with unrestricted hearing on the contralateral sideH90.12

Use when conductive loss is confirmed by air-bone gap.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common issues when documenting Hearing Loss Left Ear.

Failing to document contralateral ear status.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate clinical records., Regulatory: Potential non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: May result in claim denials.

Mitigation

Always document hearing status of both ears., Use templates that prompt for this information.

Using unspecified codes when specific laterality is known.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.

Mitigation

Always document and code the specific ear affected.

Unspecified codes

Impact

Use of unspecified codes when specific laterality is documented.

Mitigation

Ensure documentation supports specific code selection.

Frequently Asked Questions