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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ71.63

Q71.63

Billable

Lobster-claw hand, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q71.63 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of lobster-claw hand, bilateral.

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. In bilateral cases, both hands exhibit this deformity. The condition is often associated with other congenital anomalies and can be part of syndromic presentations such as Ectrodactyly-Ectodermal Dysplasia-Clefting (EEC) syndrome. The pathophysiology involves disruptions in the development of the limb bud during embryogenesis, leading to the failure of proper digit formation. Clinical evaluation typically includes a thorough physical examination, family history assessment, and may involve genetic testing to identify associated syndromes. Management may require surgical intervention for functional improvement and cosmetic correction, alongside occupational therapy to enhance hand function. Early intervention is crucial for optimal outcomes in affected children.

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 comprehensive documentation of associated syndromes
  • Variations in surgical interventions and follow-up care

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated congenital anomalies
  • Failure to capture the bilateral nature of the condition
  • Misclassification with other limb malformations
  • Lack of genetic testing documentation when applicable

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed physical examination findings, family history, and any associated conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of newborns with limb deformities, follow-up visits for surgical interventions, and therapy sessions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate representation of the bilateral nature and any functional limitations in documentation.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family pedigree, and any syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling sessions for families, diagnosis of syndromic conditions, and discussions regarding recurrence risks.

Billing Considerations

Document any genetic syndromes associated with lobster-claw hand to ensure comprehensive coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q71.63 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for congenital malformations, ensuring accurate coding of bilateral conditions and associated anomalies
  • Document all relevant clinical findings and interventions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q71.63 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20926CPT Code

Bone graft, any donor area

Clinical Scenario

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

Documentation Requirements

Document the surgical procedure, indications, and any grafting performed.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical approach aligns with pediatric standards for limb reconstruction.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for complex cases like lobster-claw hand.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 allows for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for complex cases like lobster-claw hand.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for complex cases like lobster-claw hand.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Coding for Congenital Conditions

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Coding for Congenital Conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding lobster-claw hand as bilateral?

Coding lobster-claw hand as bilateral is crucial for accurate representation of the patient's condition, which impacts treatment planning, surgical interventions, and potential genetic counseling for the family.