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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ71.8

Q71.8

Billable

Other reduction defects of upper limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q71.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other reduction defects of upper limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Q71.8 refers to congenital malformations characterized by the reduction of one or more upper limbs. These defects can manifest as partial or complete absence of the limb(s) and may arise from genetic factors, environmental influences, or a combination of both. Commonly associated conditions include phocomelia, where the limbs are severely shortened, and amelia, which is the complete absence of a limb. The severity and specific presentation can vary widely among affected individuals. These conditions often require multidisciplinary management, including orthopedic interventions, physical therapy, and sometimes surgical procedures to improve function and appearance. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement, as well as for tracking the incidence of these congenital defects in the population.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of limb reduction defects
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation to support coding
  • Potential overlap with other congenital conditions
  • Requirement for genetic evaluation in some cases

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific type of limb reduction
  • Failure to include associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of the severity of the defect
  • Lack of genetic testing documentation when applicable

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include detailed descriptions of the limb's appearance, functionality, and any associated conditions. Growth and developmental assessments are also crucial.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include infants born with limb reduction defects requiring early intervention, and ongoing assessments for developmental milestones.

Billing Considerations

Consideration must be given to the psychosocial impact on the child and family, as well as the need for supportive therapies.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, results of genetic testing, and any syndromic associations with limb reduction defects.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital limb defects or syndromes associated with limb reduction.

Billing Considerations

Coders should be aware of the implications of genetic findings on the management and prognosis of limb reduction defects.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q71.8 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring that all relevant clinical information is documented and that the code accurately reflects the patient's condition

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q71.8 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where joint issues arise due to limb reduction defects.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the procedure and any imaging studies performed.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists may frequently perform this procedure in conjunction with limb assessments.

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 data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Malformations

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Malformations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Q71.8 and Q71.0?

Q71.8 covers other reduction defects of the upper limb, while Q71.0 specifically refers to the complete absence of an upper limb. Accurate coding requires understanding the specific nature of the defect.