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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ72.812

Q72.812

Billable

Congenital shortening of left lower limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q72.812 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital shortening of left lower limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital shortening of the left lower limb is a condition characterized by a reduction in the length of the left leg at birth. This malformation can result from various factors, including genetic syndromes, environmental influences during pregnancy, or isolated limb reduction defects. The condition may present with associated musculoskeletal anomalies such as clubfoot, hip dysplasia, or limb reduction defects. Clinical evaluation often includes physical examination and imaging studies to assess the degree of shortening and any associated deformities. Treatment typically involves orthopedic interventions, including bracing or surgery, to improve function and alignment. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for optimal outcomes, as they can significantly affect the child's mobility and quality of life. The condition may also be part of broader syndromic presentations, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach for management and genetic counseling.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of limb shortening
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies
  • Need for precise documentation of limb measurements
  • Differentiation from acquired conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated conditions
  • Failure to specify the limb affected
  • Misclassification of congenital vs. acquired conditions
  • Lack of detailed clinical notes on treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of a newborn with limb shortening, follow-up visits for orthopedic management, and coordination with physical therapy.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of developmental milestones and the impact of limb shortening on mobility and function.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Family history, genetic testing results, and syndromic associations must be documented to support the diagnosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital limb defects and evaluation for syndromic conditions.

Billing Considerations

Awareness of chromosomal abnormalities that may present with limb shortening, necessitating genetic evaluation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q72.812 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital conditions, ensuring specificity in documentation regarding the limb affected and any associated anomalies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q72.812 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27500CPT Code

Lengthening of limb

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of significant limb shortening requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and pre-operative assessments.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should document the rationale for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

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 Q72.812?

Documentation should include detailed clinical evaluations, measurements of limb length, any associated congenital anomalies, and treatment plans. It is essential to specify the affected limb and any interventions performed.