Name of the Condition

• Acquired Absence of Right Foot
• Also referred to as single foot amputation or right foot amputation.

Summary

• The acquired absence of the right foot is a medical condition where the right foot has been surgically removed due to injury, disease, or another medical necessity. This condition is classified under ICD code Z89.431, used for health records and billing purposes.

Causes

• The primary causes include traumatic injury, severe infections, diabetic complications, cancer, or congenital conditions that necessitate amputation.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors may include diabetes, peripheral artery disease, severe trauma, infection, prolonged foot ulcers, and conditions that affect blood circulation.

Symptoms

• Since the foot is absent, the individual may experience changes such as phantom limb sensations, difficulty with mobility, and potential changes in posture or balance.

Diagnosis

• The condition itself is visible and diagnosed based on medical history and physical examination. However, the underlying causes usually require detailed medical history and imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs.

Treatment Options

• Prosthetics: Fitting and using a prosthetic foot for mobility and balance.
• Physical Therapy: To improve mobility, strength, and adjustment to prosthetics.
• Pain Management: Medications may be required to manage phantom limb pain.
• Psychological Support: Counseling to help cope with changes in body image and lifestyle.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Many individuals lead productive lives with appropriate rehabilitation and prosthetics. Regular follow-ups are crucial for adjusting prosthetics and managing any complications.

Complications

• Potential complications can include phantom limb pain, skin issues at the amputation site, and difficulty in prosthetic fitting if there are changes in stump size or condition.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can prevent conditions like diabetes and peripheral artery disease. Regular medical check-ups and preventive care are essential to reduce the risk of conditions necessitating amputation.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Any sudden changes in stump condition, unexplained pain, or complications with prosthesis warrant immediate medical attention.

Additional Resources

• Amputee Coalition: Website
• American Diabetes Association: Website
• National Limb Loss Resource Center: Website

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies the "right" foot to capture the correct ICD code: Z89.431.
• Avoid confusion with conditions denoting congenital absence; the code Z89.431 is specifically for acquired absence.