ICD 10 CM S78.919 | Description & Clinical Information
ICD 10 S78.919 defines a medical condition characterized by the complete traumatic amputation of the hip and thigh at an unspecified level, resulting from various causes such as traffic accidents, crush injury, explosions, or work place injuries, where the provider does not specify the exact level of amputation or whether it involves the right or left leg, leading to total loss of the leg.
Official Description Of S78.919
The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S78.919 as:
Excludes1: traumatic amputation of knee (S88.0-)
When To Use S78.919
The diagnosis describes by ICD-10 CM S78.919 is a complex condition that results from a complete traumatic amputation of an unspecified level of the hip and thigh. This type of injury can lead to severe blood loss, crippling physical and emotional pain, and long-lasting complications that often require specialized medical attention.
Among the complications caused by this type of injury are nerve, bone, soft tissue, and blood vessel damage, which can result in heterotopic ossification, abnormal bone growth in the remaining bone, and an increased risk of infection. Patients may experience a phantom limb, the sensation that the missing leg is still present, which can be immensely painful.
Providers typically diagnose this condition based on the patient’s medical history, a thorough physical examination, and imaging techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography, and/or magnetic resonance imaging. Laboratory studies are also usually conducted to assess and follow up on blood loss, blood clotting, infections, and other complications that may arise.
The treatment options for ICD-10 CM S78.919 depend on the patient’s particular symptoms and may include stopping the bleeding, cleaning and repairing the wound, administering medications such as narcotic analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to address pain, providing antibiotics to prevent or treat infections, and tetanus prophylaxis.
As healing progresses, patients may require fitting of an artificial limb (prosthesis), physical and occupational therapy, and mental health counseling as appropriate. The rehabilitation process can include a range of strategies such as learning to manage residual limb pain, strengthening muscles, and regaining mobility and balance. Mental health counseling may also be an integral part of the patient’s recovery as they may experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other emotional or psychological consequences of the amputation.
In conclusion, ICD-10 CM S78.919 can have significant physical, emotional, and social consequences on patients who suffer from a complete traumatic amputation of an unspecified level of their hip and thigh. Providers must carefully diagnose and manage this condition to minimize complications and improve patient outcomes. A multidisciplinary approach that includes physical, occupational, and psychological therapies is crucial to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care and support throughout their recovery.
