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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ71.20

Q71.20

Billable

Congenital absence of both forearm and hand, unspecified upper limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q71.20 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence of both forearm and hand, unspecified upper limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital absence of both forearm and hand, unspecified upper limb (Q71.20) 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, which can arise from genetic factors, environmental influences, or a combination of both. The absence of limbs can significantly impact a child's development, mobility, and ability to perform daily activities. It may be associated with other congenital anomalies, such as limb reduction defects, clubfoot, or scoliosis. Early intervention, including physical therapy and adaptive devices, is crucial for enhancing the child's functional abilities. Genetic counseling may also be recommended to understand the underlying causes and potential recurrence in future pregnancies. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and resource allocation in pediatric care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and associated conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of limb absence
  • Potential for co-existing congenital anomalies
  • Differentiation from acquired limb conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of limb absence specifics
  • Failure to report associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of congenital vs. acquired conditions
  • Lack of genetic evaluation documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include detailed descriptions of limb absence, associated conditions, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pediatric assessments for developmental milestones, referrals for prosthetic evaluation, and therapy sessions.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the child's age and developmental stage when planning interventions.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history, and counseling notes should be documented to assess risk factors.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling sessions for families with a history of congenital limb defects.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic basis of limb malformations and implications for future pregnancies.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q71.20 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring specificity in documentation and consideration of associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q71.20 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

97760CPT Code

Orthotic management

Clinical Scenario

Used for fitting adaptive devices for children with limb absence.

Documentation Requirements

Document the need for orthotic devices and the child's functional limitations.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric specialists should collaborate with orthotists for optimal device fitting.

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 data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 Q71.20 accurately?

Accurate coding of Q71.20 is crucial for ensuring appropriate care management, resource allocation, and understanding the prevalence of congenital limb absence. It also aids in research and tracking outcomes for affected children.