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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ71.812

Q71.812

Billable

Congenital shortening of left upper limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q71.812 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital shortening of left upper limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital shortening of the left upper limb is a condition characterized by a reduction in the length of the left arm due to developmental anomalies during fetal growth. This condition can arise from various factors, including genetic mutations, environmental influences, or disruptions in blood flow during critical periods of limb development. The severity of the shortening can vary significantly, ranging from mild to severe, and may be associated with other congenital malformations or syndromes. Clinically, affected individuals may exhibit functional limitations, cosmetic concerns, and psychosocial impacts. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for optimizing functional outcomes, which may include physical therapy, orthopedic interventions, or surgical procedures to enhance limb function and appearance. The condition is often identified through prenatal imaging or physical examination at birth, and management typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including pediatricians, orthopedic surgeons, and rehabilitation specialists.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in severity and associated conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of limb measurements
  • Potential for co-occurring congenital anomalies
  • Differentiation from acquired limb shortening

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of limb measurements
  • Failure to report associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of congenital vs. acquired conditions
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed growth and development assessments, including limb measurements and functional evaluations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of limb function in infants, referral for orthopedic evaluation, and monitoring growth patterns.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of psychosocial impacts on the child and family, as well as the need for multidisciplinary care.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history of congenital conditions, and any syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families with a history of limb reduction defects and evaluation for syndromic presentations.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic basis of limb malformations and the implications for recurrence risk in future pregnancies.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q71.812 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics, associated anomalies, and treatment plans
  • Use additional codes for any related conditions or complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q71.812 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 conjunction with limb shortening for joint-related issues.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for procedure and any imaging studies.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists may require additional imaging documentation.

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 for congenital shortening of limbs.

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 for congenital shortening of limbs.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for congenital shortening of limbs.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is required for coding congenital shortening of the left upper limb?

Documentation should include detailed measurements of the limb, any associated congenital anomalies, treatment plans, and functional assessments to support the diagnosis.