Z89.512 Acquired absence of left leg below knee

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Acquired absence of left leg below knee

#### Summary
- Acquired absence of the left leg below the knee refers to a condition where an individual has had a surgical or traumatic removal (amputation) of part of the left leg below the knee joint. This condition can significantly impact mobility and daily living activities.

#### Causes
- This condition is commonly caused by trauma (such as accidents or injuries), severe infections, tumors, or complications from conditions like peripheral vascular disease or diabetes.

#### Risk Factors
- Risk factors include diabetes, severe arterial disease, severe injuries or traumas, cancer requiring surgical removal, and previous severe infections of the lower extremities.

#### Symptoms
- The most apparent symptom is the physical absence of the lower part of the left leg. Patients may also experience phantom limb sensations, pain, and challenges with mobility and balance.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical evaluation and history. Imaging might be used to assess any remaining limb structure, and functional evaluations are often employed to understand the mobility impacts.

#### Treatment Options
- Treatment focuses on rehabilitation, including physical therapy to aid mobility, prescription of prosthetics, pain management strategies for phantom limb sensations, and psychological support for adjustment.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis can vary; with suitable rehabilitation, many patients regain significant mobility and independence. Regular follow-ups are necessary to assess prosthetic fit and function and to monitor any complications.

#### Complications
- Potential complications can include phantom limb pain, infection of the residual limb, prosthetic-related issues, and psychological effects like depression or anxiety.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including controlling blood sugar in diabetes and managing cardiovascular risk factors, can help prevent the conditions leading to amputation. Regular check-ups for individuals at risk can aid early intervention.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if there are signs of infection in the residual limb, excessive or increasing pain, or any issues with the prosthetic device.

#### Additional Resources
- [Amputee Coalition](https://www.amputee-coalition.org/)
- [Mayo Clinic: Limb Loss](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate documentation in the medical record describes the specific location and type of amputation.
- Be cautious not to confuse congenital absence with acquired absence to avoid coding errors.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Acquired absence of left leg below knee

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