ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ71.60

Q71.60

Billable

Lobster-claw hand, unspecified hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q71.60 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of lobster-claw hand, unspecified hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Lobster-claw hand, also known as split hand/split foot malformation, is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of one or more central digits of the hand, resulting in a claw-like appearance. This condition can affect one or both hands and is often associated with other congenital malformations. The condition arises from disruptions in the embryonic development of the limb buds, typically occurring during the first trimester of pregnancy. Lobster-claw hand can be isolated or part of syndromic presentations, such as in the case of Ectrodactyly-Ectodermal Dysplasia Syndrome. Clinically, patients may present with functional limitations depending on the severity of the malformation and the presence of associated anomalies. Treatment often involves surgical intervention to improve hand function and appearance, along with occupational therapy to enhance the patient's ability to perform daily activities. Accurate coding is essential for proper management and reimbursement, as well as for tracking the incidence of congenital malformations in the population.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of the condition
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies
  • Need for detailed documentation of functional impairment
  • Differentiation from similar congenital conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated congenital anomalies
  • Failure to specify laterality when applicable
  • Misclassification of the condition as a non-congenital anomaly
  • Lack of clarity in functional impairment assessments

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include detailed descriptions of the physical examination, functional assessments, and any associated conditions. Growth and developmental milestones should also be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include initial diagnosis during routine pediatric examinations, referrals for surgical evaluation, and follow-up visits for therapy.

Billing Considerations

Considerations include the age of the child, the impact of the condition on development, and the need for multidisciplinary care.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, genetic testing results, and any syndromic associations. Documentation of genetic counseling sessions is also important.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios include genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital malformations and evaluations for syndromic conditions.

Billing Considerations

Considerations include the potential for genetic syndromes and the need for comprehensive genetic evaluations.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q71.60 When
  • Official coding guidelines for congenital conditions emphasize the need for specificity, including laterality and associated conditions
  • Coders should ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis and any related procedures

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q71.60 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20926CPT Code

Bone graft, any donor area

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical correction of lobster-claw hand to improve function.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the surgical indication and details of the grafting procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of the surgical approach and expected outcomes.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Congenital Hand Deformities

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Congenital Hand Deformities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding lobster-claw hand accurately?

Accurate coding of lobster-claw hand is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, reimbursement, and tracking the incidence of congenital malformations. It ensures that patients receive the necessary multidisciplinary care and resources.