Traumatic amputation of arm and hand (complete) (partial), unilateral, below elbow, without mention of complication

This code signifies the loss of a portion or the entirety of an arm and hand due to trauma, specifically occurring below the elbow on one side of the body. It indicates that no immediate complications, such as infection or delayed healing, are documented at the time of coding.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a traumatic amputation of the forearm, wrist, or hand. Documentation should clearly state the amputation is unilateral, below the elbow, and explicitly or implicitly lack mention of acute complications.

• Ensure documentation specifies "below elbow" to differentiate from above-elbow amputations.
• Do not use this code if any immediate complications (e.g., infection, shock) are noted; a more specific code with complication should be chosen.
• This code is for the initial injury; subsequent care for prosthetic fitting or long-term sequelae will require different codes.