Acquired absence of unspecified upper limb above elbow

This code signifies the complete or partial absence of an upper extremity, specifically above the elbow joint, that was not present at birth. This condition is a result of trauma, surgery, or disease, leading to the loss of the limb.

Apply this code when documenting the acquired loss of an upper limb where the amputation or absence occurred proximal to the elbow, and the specific side (left or right) is not documented. This is appropriate for patients presenting with a history of amputation or congenital absence that was not present at birth.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the absence is "acquired" and not congenital.
• Only use this code when the laterality (left or right) is unspecified in the medical record.
• If the absence is congenital, a code from category Q71 (Congenital malformations of upper limb) would be more appropriate.