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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ72.12

Q72.12

Billable

Congenital absence of left thigh and lower leg with foot present

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q72.12 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence of left thigh and lower leg with foot present.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital absence of the left thigh and lower leg with foot present is a rare limb reduction defect characterized by the complete absence of the femur and tibia on the left side, while the foot remains intact. This condition can occur as an isolated anomaly or as part of a syndrome involving other congenital malformations. The absence of these segments can lead to significant functional limitations and may require surgical intervention, prosthetic fitting, and physical therapy for optimal mobility. The etiology of this condition is often multifactorial, involving genetic, environmental, and possibly teratogenic factors during critical periods of limb development in utero. Accurate diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI, and a multidisciplinary approach is essential for management, including orthopedic, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support. Early intervention is crucial to improve outcomes and enhance quality of life for affected individuals.

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 for associated syndromic conditions requiring additional codes
  • Differentiation from other congenital limb anomalies

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific limb affected
  • Failure to document associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of limb reduction defects
  • Lack of clarity on the functional impact of the condition

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include detailed descriptions of the limb anomaly, associated conditions, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pediatric patients presenting with limb reduction defects requiring orthopedic evaluation and rehabilitation.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth and development milestones in affected children, as well as psychosocial impacts.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic evaluation reports should detail any chromosomal abnormalities or syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital limb defects or syndromes.

Billing Considerations

Assessment for potential genetic syndromes that may accompany limb reduction defects.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q72.12 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics and any associated anomalies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q72.12 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27599CPT Code

Unlisted procedure, femur

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is performed for limb reconstruction.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and pre-operative assessments.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should provide comprehensive documentation of the procedure.

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 data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

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

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Anomalies

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Anomalies

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is required for coding Q72.12?

Documentation must include a clear description of the limb anomaly, any associated congenital conditions, and the treatment plan. Imaging studies and surgical notes should also be included to support the diagnosis.