2025 ICD-10-CM code Q74.1
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities - Other congenital malformations of limb(s) Chapter 17 - Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-Q99) Feed
Congenital malformation of the knee, including conditions like congenital absence or dislocation of the patella, genu valgum, or genu varum.
Medical necessity for treatment of congenital knee malformations is established by the presence of symptoms (pain, instability, limited mobility), functional limitations impacting daily activities, and the potential for long-term joint damage or disability.The severity of the malformation and its impact on the patient’s life will determine the need for intervention.
Orthopedists, pediatricians, and geneticists may be involved in the diagnosis and management of congenital knee malformations. The clinical responsibility includes diagnosis through physical examination and imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, MRI), genetic testing if indicated, and development of a treatment plan which may include conservative management (physical therapy, bracing) or surgical intervention.
- Chapter 17 - Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-Q99)
- Congenital malformations and deformations of the musculoskeletal system (Q65-Q79) > Other congenital malformations of limb(s) (Q74)
In simple words: This code describes birth defects affecting the knee joint.These defects can include a missing kneecap, a kneecap out of place, knock-knees, bowlegs, or an underdeveloped kneecap.
Q74.1, Congenital malformation of the knee, encompasses a range of congenital anomalies affecting the knee joint.This includes congenital absence of the patella (kneecap), congenital dislocation of the patella, genu valgum (knock-knees), genu varum (bowlegs), and a rudimentary (underdeveloped) patella.It excludes congenital dislocation of the knee (Q68.2), congenital genu recurvatum (Q68.2), and nail-patella syndrome (Q87.2).
Example 1: A newborn infant is diagnosed with congenital absence of the patella during a routine physical examination.Imaging confirms the absence of the patella.The child is referred to an orthopedist for further evaluation and potential surgical intervention. , A child presents with significant genu valgum (knock-knees), causing difficulty with ambulation and potential for joint instability.Physical therapy and bracing are initially attempted, but surgical correction may be considered if conservative management is unsuccessful., A toddler exhibits a congenital dislocation of the patella that is causing significant pain and limitation of mobility.Orthopedic intervention (surgical realignment and possibly patellar stabilization) is required.
Detailed physical examination documenting the knee's range of motion, stability, and alignment; imaging studies (X-rays, ultrasound, MRI); genetic testing (if indicated); documentation of the patient's developmental milestones; and any prior or current treatments.
** This code is used for reporting congenital malformations affecting the knee joint specifically.Careful consideration must be given to the precise nature of the malformation to ensure accurate coding.If multiple malformations are present, appropriate coding for each condition should be used.Always refer to the latest official ICD-10-CM coding manual for the most up-to-date information and guidelines.
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- Specialties:Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Genetics
- Place of Service:Office, Hospital (Inpatient and Outpatient), Ambulatory Surgical Center