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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ72.0

Q72.0

Billable

Congenital complete absence of lower limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q72.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital complete absence of lower limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital complete absence of lower limb (Q72.0) refers to a condition where one or both lower limbs are entirely absent at birth. This condition can result from various factors, including genetic mutations, environmental influences during pregnancy, or disruptions in limb development. The absence of a limb can significantly impact a child's mobility, development, and psychosocial well-being. It is often associated with other congenital malformations, such as clubfoot, hip dysplasia, or limb reduction defects. The diagnosis is typically made through physical examination and imaging studies, such as ultrasound or X-rays, which can help assess the extent of limb absence and any associated anomalies. Early intervention, including prosthetic fitting and physical therapy, is crucial for improving functional outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for affected children. Understanding the underlying causes and associated conditions is essential for comprehensive care and management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in associated congenital conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of limb absence
  • Potential for co-occurring chromosomal abnormalities
  • Differentiation from other limb reduction defects

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of limb absence
  • Failure to report associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of limb reduction defects
  • Lack of clarity in clinical notes regarding the extent of absence

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include detailed physical examination findings, imaging results, and any interventions planned or performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Considerations include the child's developmental milestones and the psychosocial impact of limb absence on family dynamics.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, any genetic testing results, and potential syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Considerations include the need for thorough genetic evaluation to identify potential chromosomal abnormalities that may accompany limb absence.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q72.0 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital conditions, ensuring accurate documentation of the absence and any associated anomalies
  • Use additional codes as necessary to capture related conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q72.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27599CPT Code

Unlisted procedure, lower extremity

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical interventions related to limb absence.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and justification for the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should provide 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 more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the ability to capture the complexity of congenital limb absence and associated anomalies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the ability to capture the complexity of congenital limb absence and associated anomalies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the ability to capture the complexity of congenital limb absence and associated anomalies.

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 Q72.0?

Documentation must include a clear description of the limb absence, any associated congenital anomalies, and details of any interventions or treatments planned or performed.