Congenital absence of both forearm and hand, bilateral
ICD-10 Q71.23 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence of both forearm and hand, bilateral.
Congenital absence of both forearms and hands, classified under Q71.23, refers to a rare congenital malformation where the forearms and hands are completely absent at birth. This condition is part of a broader category of limb reduction defects, which can occur due to genetic factors, environmental influences, or a combination of both. The absence of forearms and hands can significantly impact a child's ability to perform daily activities and may require multidisciplinary management, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and possibly surgical interventions to improve function or cosmetic appearance. The etiology of this condition can be complex, involving genetic mutations or syndromic associations, and it may be linked to other congenital anomalies. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for optimizing developmental outcomes and supporting families in adapting to the challenges posed by this condition.
Pediatric documentation should include detailed descriptions of limb absence, functional assessments, and any associated conditions. Growth and developmental milestones should also be documented.
Common scenarios include newborn assessments revealing limb absence, referrals for occupational therapy, and evaluations for prosthetic fitting.
Considerations include the age of the child, developmental milestones, and the psychosocial impact on the family.
Genetic documentation must include family history, any genetic testing results, and the potential for syndromic associations.
Scenarios may involve genetic counseling sessions for families, discussions of recurrence risks, and management of associated syndromes.
Considerations include the need for thorough genetic evaluation and the implications of findings for family planning.
Used for fitting and management of prosthetics for children with limb absence.
Document the need for orthotic devices and the specific functional goals.
Pediatric specialists should ensure that the orthotic management plan is tailored to the child's developmental needs.
Accurate coding of Q71.23 is crucial for ensuring appropriate reimbursement, facilitating research on congenital conditions, and providing comprehensive care for affected children. It also aids in tracking the prevalence of congenital limb defects and informs public health initiatives.
