Is ICD-10-CM code Q78 billable?

No, Q78 (Other osteochondrodysplasias) is a non-billable ICD-10-CM code. It must be coded to a more specific subcategory before it can be used for reimbursement.

What chapter does ICD-10-CM code Q78 belong to?

Q78 belongs to Chapter 17 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: Q00–Q99 (Congenital Malformations, Deformations and Chromosomal Abnormalities).

Q78Not billable, use a more specific code below

Other osteochondrodysplasias

In Congenital malformations and deformations of the musculoskeletal system (Q65-Q79), chapter 17: Congenital Malformations, Deformations and Chromosomal Abnormalities

9 billable codes under Q78: 2 are a CC; none map to an HCC.A CC or MCC (major CC) is a secondary diagnosis that raises the MS-DRG payment.

Instructional notes

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

congenital myotonic chondrodystrophy (G71.13)

Official coding guidelines

From the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, FY 2027 (CMS and NCHS). Links open the PDF at the right page.

Assign Q00-QA1 codes for documented congenital anomalies or genetic disorders at any age, coding non-inherent manifestations separately and sequencing Z38 first on the birth admission.

Read Section I.C.17 (page 74)

All codes under Q78

Q78 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

Q78 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, the billable codes under Q78 group to MS-DRG 564, 565, 566, 456, 457, or 458 (v44.0). Which one applies depends on procedures performed, secondary diagnoses (CC/MCC), and the patient's age and discharge status.

DRG 564 Other Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue Diagnoses with MCC (9 of 9 codes)
DRG 565 Other Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue Diagnoses with CC (9 of 9 codes)
DRG 566 Other Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue Diagnoses without CC/MCC (9 of 9 codes)
DRG 456 Spinal Fusion Except Cervical with Spinal Curvature, Malignancy, or Infection with MCC (1 of 9 codes)
DRG 457 Spinal Fusion Except Cervical with Spinal Curvature, Malignancy, or Infection with CC (1 of 9 codes)
DRG 458 Spinal Fusion Except Cervical with Spinal Curvature, Malignancy, or Infection without CC/MCC (1 of 9 codes)

About the condition

Plain-language background from MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine), not coding guidance.

Birth Defects

A birth defect is a problem that happens while a baby is developing in the mother's body. Most birth defects happen during the first 3 months of pregnancy. One out of every 33 babies in the United States is born with a birth defect.

Code history

Valid since FY2016, when ICD-10-CM took effect on October 1, 2015. No changes since.