2025 ICD-10-CM code Q72.4
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities - Reduction defects of lower limb Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-Q99) Feed
Longitudinal reduction defect of the femur; also known as proximal femoral focal deficiency.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of the congenital anomaly and the need for diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment to minimize functional limitations associated with the condition.Treatment plans are usually based on the severity of the reduction defect.Documentation should show the impact on the child's daily life and mobility.
Orthopedic surgeon, geneticist, and possibly a team of specialists depending on the severity and associated conditions.
- Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-Q99)
- Congenital malformations and deformations of the musculoskeletal system (Q65-Q79)
In simple words: This code describes a birth defect where the thigh bone (femur) is shorter than normal or partially missing. This can range from mild shortening to a more severe condition affecting the hip area. Doctors use X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the problem.
Q72.4, Longitudinal reduction defect of the femur, refers to a congenital condition characterized by an incomplete development of the femur (thigh bone). This can range from a mild shortening of the femur to a complete absence of a significant portion of the bone, often impacting the proximal (upper) end.The condition may present with varying degrees of severity, potentially involving other structures of the lower limb.It's crucial to distinguish this from transverse intercalary deficiencies, where the absence of the bone is more segmental.Accurate diagnosis requires thorough clinical examination and radiographic imaging.
Example 1: A newborn infant is diagnosed with a shortened femur on a routine physical exam. Radiographic imaging confirms the diagnosis of a longitudinal reduction defect of the femur (Q72.4). The infant will require ongoing orthopedic monitoring and may need surgical intervention as they grow., A child presents with a noticeable leg length discrepancy. Imaging reveals a significant portion of the proximal femur is underdeveloped. The diagnosis is Q72.4. The child requires specialized orthopedic management, potentially including surgical procedures to correct the length discrepancy and improve joint function., During a prenatal ultrasound, a shortened femur is noted. After birth, further evaluation confirms the diagnosis of proximal femoral focal deficiency (Q72.4). The neonate will require extensive follow-up care including surgical and physical therapy interventions.
Detailed clinical examination notes, prenatal ultrasound reports (if applicable), radiographic images (X-rays, CT scans), surgical reports (if applicable), and physical therapy records.
** This code is used to report a spectrum of severity, from mild shortening to significant femoral hypoplasia. Accurate coding requires detailed clinical documentation and radiological findings.Genetic testing may be indicated in some cases.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Orthopedics, Genetics, Pediatric surgery
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital