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ICD-10 Coding for Above-Knee Amputation(Z89.61-, 0Y6M0Z1)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Above-Knee Amputation. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

AKATransfemoral Amputation

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Above-Knee Amputation

Z89.61-Z89.619Primary Range

Acquired absence of leg above knee

This range covers the acquired absence of the leg above the knee, which is the primary condition post-amputation.

Detachment, Lower Extremity, Upper Leg, High, Open

This code is used for the surgical procedure of above-knee amputation.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
Z89.61-Acquired absence of leg above kneeUse for documenting the status of a patient post above-knee amputation.
  • Documented surgical history of above-knee amputation
  • Residual limb assessment
0Y6M0Z1Detachment, Lower Extremity, Upper Leg, High, OpenUse for the surgical procedure of above-knee amputation.
  • Operative report detailing the level of amputation
  • Intraoperative confirmation of viable margins

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for above-knee amputation

Essential facts and insights about Above-Knee Amputation

The ICD-10 code for acquired absence of the leg above the knee is Z89.61-, with specific codes for laterality.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for amputation above knee

Acquired absence of leg above knee
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient has undergone surgical removal of the leg above the knee.

Applicable To

  • Post-surgical absence of leg above knee

Excludes

  • Congenital absence of limb (Q71.3)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented surgical history of above-knee amputation
  • Residual limb assessment

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure laterality is specified to avoid unspecified coding.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes specific anatomical landmarks and laterality.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Atherosclerosis with gangrene

I70.23-
Use to document underlying vascular conditions leading to amputation.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Acquired absence of foot and ankle

Z89.71-
Use Z89.71- for amputations below the knee.

Hip disarticulation

0Y6N0Z1
Use for amputations through the hip joint.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Above-Knee Amputation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Z89.61-.

Impact

Clinical: Ambiguity in patient records., Regulatory: Potential for audit discrepancies., Financial: Delayed or denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Standardize documentation templates to include laterality., Educate staff on the importance of complete documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may result in improper reimbursement., Compliance: Misrepresentation of surgical procedure can lead to compliance issues., Data Quality: Inaccurate data affects clinical records and research.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify the operative report to ensure the correct level of amputation is coded.

Impact

Coding without specifying laterality increases audit risk.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory fields for laterality in EHR systems.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Above-Knee Amputation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Above-Knee Amputation

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Above-Knee Amputation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Post-operative documentation for AKA

Specialty: Orthopedic Surgery

Required Elements

  • Anatomical landmarks
  • Laterality
  • Surgical technique
  • Post-operative plan

Example Documentation

Procedure: Right above-knee amputation at proximal femur due to critical limb ischemia. Closure: Myodesis performed. Post-op plan: Follow-up for prosthetic fitting.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
AKA performed.
Good Documentation Example
Right AKA at proximal femur due to ischemia, myodesis closure, follow-up for prosthetics.
Explanation
The good example provides specific anatomical details, etiology, and post-operative plans.

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