Acquired absence of unspecified hip joint

This code indicates the complete removal or congenital absence of an entire hip joint, where the specific side (left or right) is not documented. This condition results in a significant functional deficit and often necessitates prosthetic intervention or other reconstructive procedures.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states an acquired absence of a hip joint, but the laterality is unspecified. This is commonly seen following radical surgical resections for tumors, severe trauma, or infection where the entire joint was removed and the operative report or physician notes do not specify left or right.

• Always query the provider for laterality if not documented to allow for a more specific code (Z89.621 or Z89.622).
• Do not use this code for partial resections or disarticulations that do not involve the entire joint.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "acquired absence" rather than a congenital anomaly, which would fall under different code categories.