2025 ICD-10-CM code Q73.8
This code represents other reduction defects of an unspecified limb, including longitudinal reduction deformity, ectromelia, and hemimelia.
Medical necessity for interventions related to Q73.8 is established by demonstrating the functional limitations and impact on the patient's quality of life due to the limb reduction defect. This may involve documenting difficulties with mobility, self-care, and other daily activities. The chosen intervention, whether surgical reconstruction, prosthetic fitting, or therapy, should be justified as the most appropriate approach to improve the patient's functional status and overall well-being.
Diagnosing and managing patients with congenital limb reduction defects typically falls under the purview of specialists like orthopedists, geneticists, and pediatricians. They assess the extent of the malformation, provide necessary medical interventions, and coordinate long-term care. This may involve surgical procedures, prosthetic fittings, physical therapy, and psychosocial support to address the functional and emotional impact of the condition.
- 17. Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-Q99)
- Q73 - Reduction defects of unspecified limb
In simple words: This code describes a birth defect where a baby's arm or leg doesn't develop completely. The problem is not specified to a certain limb.This can happen for different reasons, like if the baby doesn't get enough blood flow in the womb or if the mother takes certain medications during pregnancy.
Other reduction defects of unspecified limb(s): This encompasses congenital limb reduction defects that are not otherwise specified, such as amelia, ectromelia, hemimelia, and phocomelia, where the specific limb affected is not documented. It signifies a condition where one or more limbs have not fully developed, leading to a congenital malformation. Limb development occurs during the first few weeks of pregnancy, and disruptions during this period can cause reduction defects. Factors such as certain medications or insufficient blood supply to the developing limbs can contribute to these malformations.
Example 1: A newborn is diagnosed with ectromelia of an unspecified limb, a condition where the distal segments of the limb are absent. Code Q73.8 is used., An infant presents with hemimelia, a partial absence of a limb, where the proximal segments are present but the distal segments are missing. The specific limb is not specified in the documentation. Code Q73.8 applies., A fetus is diagnosed prenatally with a longitudinal reduction defect of an unspecified limb, a condition where the limb is shortened along its long axis. The specific limb affected is not documented, so Q73.8 is used.
Thorough documentation is crucial for accurate coding. This should include:* Detailed clinical description of the limb malformation, including the affected bones, joints, and soft tissues.* Imaging studies (X-rays, ultrasound, MRI) confirming the diagnosis.* Prenatal history, including exposure to teratogens or any other relevant maternal factors.* Genetic testing results, if applicable.* Treatment plan, including surgical interventions, prosthetics, or physical therapy.
** The code Q73.8 is exempt from the Present on Admission (POA) reporting requirement.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Orthopedics, Genetics, Pediatrics, Radiology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Office