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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ72.819

Q72.819

Billable

Congenital shortening of unspecified lower limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q72.819 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital shortening of unspecified lower limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital shortening of the lower limb is a condition characterized by the underdevelopment or reduction in length of one or both lower limbs, which can occur due to various congenital malformations or deformations. This condition may arise from genetic factors, environmental influences, or a combination of both. It can manifest as part of broader syndromes or as an isolated anomaly. Congenital shortening can lead to functional impairments, affecting mobility and overall quality of life. Associated conditions may include limb reduction defects, clubfoot, and hip dysplasia, which can complicate the clinical picture. Diagnosis typically involves physical examination, imaging studies, and sometimes genetic testing to identify underlying chromosomal abnormalities. Treatment may include orthopedic interventions, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical procedures to improve limb function and alignment. Early intervention is crucial for optimizing outcomes in affected children.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of limb shortening.
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies.
  • Need for comprehensive documentation to support the diagnosis.
  • Differentiation from acquired conditions or syndromic presentations.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific limb affected.
  • Failure to document associated congenital conditions.
  • Lack of clarity on the functional impact of the shortening.
  • Misclassification of congenital shortening as an acquired condition.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed growth and development assessments, including physical examination findings and any associated conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

A pediatric patient presenting with unilateral limb shortening and associated clubfoot requiring orthopedic evaluation.

Billing Considerations

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

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

A child with congenital shortening of the lower limb undergoing genetic counseling for potential syndromic causes.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic basis of limb malformations and the implications for family planning.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q72.819 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring specificity in documentation and adherence to coding conventions for congenital conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q72.819 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27500CPT Code

Osteotomy, femur, proximal or distal

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of significant limb shortening requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessments, imaging studies, and surgical notes.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic evaluation and planning are essential for surgical candidates.

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 congenital shortening of the lower limb?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, imaging results, any associated congenital conditions, and treatment plans to support the diagnosis.