ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ72.813

Q72.813

Billable

Congenital shortening of lower limb, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q72.813 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital shortening of lower limb, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital shortening of the lower limb, bilateral, refers to a condition where both legs are shorter than normal due to developmental anomalies that occur during fetal growth. This condition can arise from various congenital malformations or deformations of the musculoskeletal system, including limb reduction defects, which may be associated with syndromes such as phocomelia or amelia. The etiology can be multifactorial, including genetic factors, environmental influences, or teratogenic exposures during pregnancy. Clinical presentation may vary, with some children exhibiting significant functional impairment while others may have minimal impact on mobility. Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, imaging studies, and sometimes genetic testing to identify underlying syndromic associations. Treatment options may include orthopedic interventions, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical procedures to improve limb function and appearance. Early intervention is crucial for optimizing developmental outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of limb shortening
  • Potential association with syndromic conditions requiring additional coding
  • Need for precise documentation of limb measurements and functional impact
  • Differentiation from other congenital limb anomalies

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of limb measurements
  • Failure to identify associated syndromic conditions
  • Misclassification of limb anomalies
  • Lack of clarity on functional impairment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed growth and developmental assessments, including physical examination findings and any interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of a newborn with bilateral limb shortening, follow-up evaluations for developmental milestones.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of family history and potential genetic counseling needs.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family pedigree, and any syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Referral for genetic counseling due to suspected syndromic causes of limb shortening.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of any chromosomal abnormalities or genetic syndromes that may be associated.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q72.813 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's nature, severity, and any associated anomalies
  • Use additional codes as necessary to capture related conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q72.813 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27500CPT Code

Osteotomy, femur

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for limb lengthening.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessments, imaging studies, and post-operative follow-up notes.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should provide detailed operative reports.

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 bilateral limb shortening and its 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 bilateral limb shortening and its 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 bilateral limb shortening and its 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 Q72.813?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment of the limb shortening, any associated syndromic conditions, imaging studies, and treatment plans. Clear descriptions of functional limitations and interventions are essential for accurate coding.