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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ72.2

Q72.2

Billable

Congenital absence of both lower leg and foot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q72.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence of both lower leg and foot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital absence of both lower leg and foot (Q72.2) refers to a condition where a child is born without one or both lower legs and feet. This condition is classified under congenital malformations of the musculoskeletal system and can result from various genetic and environmental factors during fetal development. The absence of lower limbs can significantly impact mobility and overall quality of life, necessitating early intervention and multidisciplinary care. Children with this condition may require prosthetics, physical therapy, and orthopedic interventions to enhance mobility and function. The absence of lower limbs can also be associated with other congenital anomalies, such as clubfoot, hip dysplasia, or limb reduction defects, which may complicate the clinical picture. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and resource allocation in pediatric care settings, and it is crucial to document any associated conditions or syndromes that may influence treatment and prognosis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in associated congenital conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of limb absence
  • Potential for co-occurring syndromes
  • Differentiation from other limb reduction defects

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated conditions
  • Failure to specify the extent of limb absence
  • Misclassification with other congenital limb defects
  • Lack of clarity in clinical notes regarding functional limitations

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Documentation should include detailed descriptions of the limb absence, any associated congenital anomalies, and the impact on the child's mobility and development.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include newborn assessments revealing limb absence, referrals for prosthetic fitting, and multidisciplinary team evaluations for mobility enhancement.

Billing Considerations

Considerations include the age of the child, developmental milestones, and the need for ongoing orthopedic evaluations.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic counseling for families, evaluations for syndromic conditions, and discussions regarding recurrence risks in future pregnancies.

Billing Considerations

Genetic coders must be aware of the implications of chromosomal abnormalities that may accompany limb deficiencies.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q72.2 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring that all relevant clinical information is captured
  • Document any associated conditions and specify the absence of limbs clearly to avoid ambiguity

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q72.2 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

27599CPT Code

Unlisted procedure, lower extremity

Clinical Scenario

Used when performing a unique surgical procedure related to limb absence.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and justification for the unlisted procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should provide comprehensive documentation to support the necessity of the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of congenital conditions, including Q72.2, which enhances the ability to track and manage these complex cases effectively.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of congenital conditions, including Q72.2, which enhances the ability to track and manage these complex cases effectively.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of congenital conditions, including Q72.2, which enhances the ability to track and manage these complex cases effectively.

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 Q72.2?

Documentation must include a clear description of the congenital absence, any associated conditions, and the impact on the child's mobility. Clinical notes should detail the extent of limb absence and any interventions planned or performed.