Tympanosclerosis, bilateral

This code identifies a condition characterized by the abnormal hardening of tissues within both middle ears, often involving the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and ossicles. This sclerosis results from hyalinization and calcification, which can impair sound conduction and lead to hearing loss.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states bilateral tympanosclerosis, typically diagnosed via otoscopy showing white, chalky plaques on both eardrums, or during surgical exploration. It is appropriate for cases where the condition affects both ears, regardless of the severity in each ear.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use the appropriate unilateral code (H74.01 or H74.02).
• Do not confuse with otosclerosis (H80.-), which involves abnormal bone growth in the middle ear, though both can cause conductive hearing loss.
• Code any associated conductive hearing loss (H90.0, H90.1-) separately, as tympanosclerosis is the underlying cause.