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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ72.23

Q72.23

Billable

Congenital absence of both lower leg and foot, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q72.23 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence of both lower leg and foot, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital absence of both lower leg and foot, bilateral (Q72.23) refers to a condition where a child is born without both lower legs and feet. This condition is classified under congenital malformations of the musculoskeletal system, which can arise from genetic factors, environmental influences, or a combination of both. The absence of lower limbs can significantly impact mobility and overall development, necessitating early intervention and multidisciplinary care. Children with this condition may require prosthetic devices, physical therapy, and surgical interventions to enhance mobility and function. The etiology can vary, with some cases linked to genetic syndromes or teratogenic exposures during pregnancy. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and resource allocation in pediatric care, as well as for genetic counseling when applicable. Understanding the implications of this condition is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care and support for affected families.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of limb absence
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies
  • Need for multidisciplinary care coordination
  • Documentation of associated conditions or syndromes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the absence and its implications
  • Failure to document associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of limb reduction defects
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and interventions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed documentation of the child's developmental milestones, mobility assessments, and any interventions or therapies provided.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of a newborn with bilateral limb absence, follow-up visits for prosthetic fitting, and physical therapy evaluations.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of psychosocial aspects for the family and the child, as well as the need for ongoing support and resources.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling sessions for families, evaluation of potential genetic syndromes associated with limb absence.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic basis of congenital limb absence and its implications for family planning.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q72.23 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's nature and any associated anomalies
  • Use additional codes as necessary to capture related conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q72.23 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27599CPT Code

Unlisted procedure, leg

Clinical Scenario

Used when performing a unique surgical intervention for limb reconstruction or prosthetic fitting.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and justification for the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the procedure aligns with the treatment plan for congenital limb absence.

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 resource allocation for affected patients.

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 resource allocation for affected patients.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and compliance.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Malformations

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Congenital Malformations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding congenital absence of limbs?

Accurate coding is crucial for understanding the prevalence of congenital conditions, guiding treatment plans, and ensuring appropriate resource allocation for affected individuals and families.