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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ71.22

Q71.22

Billable

Congenital absence of both forearm and hand, left upper limb

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q71.22 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence of both forearm and hand, left upper limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital absence of both the forearm and hand on the left upper limb is a specific limb reduction defect characterized by the complete absence of the forearm and hand structures. This condition can occur as an isolated anomaly or as part of a syndrome involving other congenital malformations. The absence may result from genetic factors, environmental influences during pregnancy, or a combination of both. Clinically, this condition is assessed through physical examination and imaging studies to evaluate the extent of limb involvement and any associated anomalies. Management typically involves multidisciplinary care, including orthopedic evaluation, prosthetic fitting, and occupational therapy to optimize function and adaptation. Early intervention is crucial to support the child's development and improve quality of life. The condition may be associated with other congenital malformations, such as clubfoot or scoliosis, necessitating comprehensive evaluation and management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in associated congenital conditions
  • Need for detailed documentation of limb involvement
  • Potential for co-occurring syndromes
  • Variations in treatment approaches

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated conditions
  • Failure to specify laterality
  • Misclassification of limb reduction defects
  • Lack of evidence for multidisciplinary care

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include detailed physical examination findings, imaging results, and any associated congenital anomalies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include newborn assessments for limb anomalies, referrals for orthopedic evaluation, and discussions regarding prosthetic options.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of developmental milestones and the impact of limb absence on functional abilities is essential for accurate coding.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic counseling notes should document family history, potential syndromic associations, and genetic testing results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may include genetic evaluations for syndromes associated with limb reduction defects and discussions about recurrence risks.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic basis of congenital limb defects is crucial for accurate coding and management.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q71.22 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of laterality and associated conditions
  • Use additional codes as necessary to capture the full clinical picture

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q71.22 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

97760CPT Code

Orthotic management

Clinical Scenario

Used for fitting and management of prosthetics for limb absence.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the type of prosthetic device and the patient's functional needs.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should provide detailed notes on the patient's progress and adaptations.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better understanding the prevalence and management of congenital limb defects.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better understanding the prevalence and management of congenital limb defects.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better understanding the prevalence and management of congenital limb defects.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Anomalies

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Anomalies

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is required for coding Q71.22?

Documentation must include a detailed physical examination, imaging studies, and any associated congenital anomalies. It should also reflect the multidisciplinary approach to management.