Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
ICD-10-CM H72.81 is the diagnosis code for Multiple perforations of tympanic membrane. This code falls under the section "Diseases of middle ear and mastoid" within Chapter 8 — Diseases of the ear and mastoid process (H60-H95). It is a non-billable/non-specific ICD-10-CM code that should not be used for reimbursement. A more specific sub-code is required for billing. Medical coders and healthcare providers use this code to document and classify diagnoses in electronic health records, insurance claims, and clinical databases.
Always refer to the official ICD-10-CM Tabular List for complete coding guidelines. Ensure documentation supports the specificity of the code selected. When in doubt, consult a certified medical coder or the latest CMS guidelines.
Understanding where H72.81 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:
No, H72.81 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.
H72.81 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Multiple perforations of tympanic membrane". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.
The parent code of H72.81 is H72.8 ("Other perforations of tympanic membrane"). H72.81 provides a more specific classification within this category.
H72.81 is located in Section H65-H75 — "Diseases of middle ear and mastoid" within Chapter 8 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.
H72.81 has 4 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: H72.811, H72.812, H72.813, H72.819.
Use H72.81 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Multiple perforations of tympanic membrane" and the clinical documentation supports this level of specificity. Always verify with the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines and payer requirements.
The ICD-10-CM code for Multiple perforations of tympanic membrane is H72.81.
No, H72.81 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.
H72.81 is in Chapter 8 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.
Yes, H72.81 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.