Traumatic amputation of arm and hand (complete) (partial), unilateral, at or above elbow, complicated

This code signifies the complete or partial traumatic separation of an entire upper limb, including the hand, occurring at or above the elbow joint. It specifically denotes cases where complications, such as infection, delayed healing, or nerve damage, are present. This injury results from an external force, not a surgical procedure.

Use this code for patients presenting with a traumatic amputation of the arm and hand, unilaterally, where the transection is at or proximal to the elbow. Documentation must clearly indicate the traumatic nature of the amputation and the presence of specific complications. This code is appropriate for initial encounters and subsequent care related to the complicated nature of the injury.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "traumatic amputation" and specifies "at or above elbow" for laterality and level.
• Verify the presence of a documented complication (e.g., infection, non-union, foreign body) to justify the "complicated" designation.
• Do not use for surgical amputations; those are coded differently.