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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ78.6

Q78.6

Billable

Multiple congenital exostoses

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q78.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of multiple congenital exostoses.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Multiple congenital exostoses, also known as hereditary multiple exostoses (HME), is a genetic disorder characterized by the development of multiple benign bone tumors (exostoses) that typically arise from the growth plates of long bones. These exostoses can lead to deformities and functional impairments, particularly in the musculoskeletal system. Patients may present with limb deformities, joint pain, and restricted mobility due to the presence of these bony growths. The condition is often inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, and while it primarily affects the long bones, exostoses can also occur in other areas such as the pelvis and spine. Clinical management may involve monitoring for complications, surgical intervention for symptomatic exostoses, and addressing associated musculoskeletal issues such as scoliosis or limb length discrepancies. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and resource allocation in pediatric patients.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of exostoses
  • Potential for associated musculoskeletal deformities
  • Need for genetic testing documentation
  • Differentiation from other bone disorders

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the number and location of exostoses
  • Failure to document associated musculoskeletal conditions
  • Misclassification of exostoses as malignant lesions
  • Lack of genetic testing results in the medical record

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed growth and developmental assessments, imaging studies, and treatment plans must be documented to support the diagnosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pediatric patients presenting with limb pain, deformities, or functional limitations due to multiple exostoses.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth patterns and potential for surgical intervention in growing children.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic counseling notes, family history, and results of genetic testing should be included to support the diagnosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing genetic evaluation for hereditary multiple exostoses and family planning discussions.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the inheritance pattern and implications for family members is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q78.6 When
  • Follow the ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's impact on the musculoskeletal system and any associated anomalies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q78.6 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20670CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used when joint pain is present due to exostoses.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the procedure and the joint involved.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric considerations for sedation and pain management.

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 accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for conditions like multiple congenital exostoses.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for conditions like multiple congenital exostoses.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for conditions like multiple congenital exostoses.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common treatments for multiple congenital exostoses?

Treatment options may include monitoring for growth and symptoms, surgical removal of symptomatic exostoses, and physical therapy to improve mobility and function. Regular follow-up is essential to manage any complications.