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Acquired absence of other part of head and neck
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Acquired Absence of Other Part of Head and Neck
#### Summary
- Acquired absence of other part of head and neck refers to a condition where an individual has lost a part of their head or neck due to surgery, injury, or disease. This can affect both functionality and appearance, leading to a need for medical and possibly surgical interventions.
#### Causes
- The condition can be caused by surgical removal due to cancer, traumatic injury, congenital absence corrected surgically, or other medical interventions where removal of part of the head or neck was necessary.
#### Risk Factors
- Risk factors include a history of head and neck cancer, significant trauma to the head or neck area, congenital conditions requiring surgical intervention, and severe infections.
#### Symptoms
- Symptoms might include aesthetic changes, pain, altered functioning of head or neck-related activities (e.g., swallowing, speech), and possibly psychological distress.
#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination and review of the patient's medical history to understand the cause of the acquired absence. Imaging studies might be used for assessment in certain cases.
#### Treatment Options
- Treatment often includes reconstructive surgery, prosthetics, pain management, and physical therapy to restore physical function. Psychological support may also be necessary to address emotional impacts.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis varies greatly depending on the underlying cause and the success of treatment interventions. Regular follow-up care is crucial for monitoring recovery, managing symptoms, and addressing any new or ongoing medical issues.
#### Complications
- Potential complications include infection, further loss of function, issues with fitting and adjusting prosthetics, and possible mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle may facilitate recovery and prevent complications. This includes maintaining regular medical check-ups, following rehabilitation protocols, and addressing any mental health needs.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if there are signs of infection, significant functional impairment, severe pain, or psychological distress related to the condition.
#### Additional Resources
- American Head and Neck Society (AHNS)
- CancerCare for support resources if the underlying cause was cancer-related
- Head and Neck Cancer Alliance
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the absence is due to an acquired condition and not congenital, as the ICD coding will differ.
- Verify that all relevant medical records clearly document the cause and specifics of the surgical or traumatic event leading to the acquired absence.