Acquired absence of unspecified upper limb below elbow

This code indicates the absence of an upper limb, specifically below the elbow, that was not present at birth but resulted from an event such as trauma, surgery, or disease. It signifies a missing forearm, wrist, or hand due to an acquired condition.

Use this code for patients who have undergone an amputation or experienced a traumatic loss of a portion of their upper limb distal to the elbow joint. This applies when the specific side (left or right) of the absent limb is not documented or is unknown.

• Always strive for laterality (left or right) if documented, as more specific codes exist.
• Do not use this code for congenital absences; refer to codes in the Q71 series.
• Ensure the documentation clearly states "acquired" and "below elbow" to support this code.