Acquired deformity of pinna, unspecified ear

This code signifies a non-congenital alteration in the normal shape or structure of the external ear (pinna). This deformity is acquired after birth due to various factors such as trauma, inflammation, or disease, and the specific ear affected is not documented.

Apply this code when documentation indicates an acquired malformation of the auricle, but the medical record does not specify whether it affects the right or left ear. This is appropriate for conditions like cauliflower ear, keloids of the pinna, or other structural changes not present at birth, where laterality is unknown.

• Only use this code when laterality (right or left ear) is genuinely unspecified in the medical record.
• Avoid using this code if the documentation clearly indicates laterality; instead, select the more specific code (H61.111 for right, H61.112 for left).
• Ensure the deformity is explicitly stated as "acquired" to differentiate from congenital malformations (Q17.x series).