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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ71.2

Q71.2

Billable

Congenital absence of both forearm and hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q71.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence of both forearm and hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital absence of both forearm and hand (Q71.2) refers to a condition where a child is born without the forearms and hands. This condition is classified under congenital malformations of the musculoskeletal system and can occur as an isolated anomaly or as part of a syndrome involving other congenital defects. The absence of these limbs can significantly impact a child's functional abilities, affecting their capacity for self-care, mobility, and social interactions. The etiology of this condition can be multifactorial, including genetic factors, environmental influences during pregnancy, or teratogenic exposures. Diagnosis is typically made at birth through physical examination, and further imaging may be required to assess associated anomalies. Management often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including orthopedic intervention, physical therapy, and occupational therapy to enhance the child's functional independence and quality of life.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and associated anomalies
  • Need for detailed documentation of limb absence
  • Potential for coexisting congenital conditions
  • Differentiation from other limb reduction defects

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of limb absence
  • Failure to report associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of limb reduction defects
  • Lack of clarity in the clinical narrative

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation must include detailed descriptions of limb absence, functional assessments, and any associated conditions. Growth and developmental milestones should also be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include newborn assessments where limb absence is noted, referrals for orthopedic evaluations, and multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss management strategies.

Billing Considerations

Considerations include the child's age, developmental stage, and the potential need for prosthetics or adaptive devices.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, any genetic testing results, and potential syndromic associations. Detailed notes on genetic counseling sessions are also necessary.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic consultations for suspected syndromes, discussions about recurrence risks, and evaluations for associated genetic conditions.

Billing Considerations

Genetic coders must be aware of the implications of syndromic associations and the need for precise coding to reflect the genetic basis of the condition.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q71.2 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, congenital conditions should be coded based on the specific anatomical site and type of malformation
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and reflects any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q71.2 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits in managing congenital absence of limbs.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the patient's history, examination findings, and management plan.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatricians should focus on developmental assessments and referrals to specialists.

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 granularity of data collection and enhancing the ability to track outcomes and resource utilization for congenital limb absence.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the granularity of data collection and enhancing the ability to track outcomes and resource utilization for congenital limb absence.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the granularity of data collection and enhancing the ability to track outcomes and resource utilization for congenital limb absence.

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 is the significance of coding congenital absence of limbs accurately?

Accurate coding of congenital absence of limbs is crucial for appropriate reimbursement, tracking of congenital conditions, and ensuring that patients receive the necessary multidisciplinary care. It also aids in research and understanding the prevalence and outcomes of congenital malformations.