ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.036

M87.036

Billable

Idiopathic aseptic necrosis of unspecified ulna

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/17/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.036 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of idiopathic aseptic necrosis of unspecified ulna.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Idiopathic aseptic necrosis of the ulna is a condition characterized by the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply, specifically affecting the ulna bone in the forearm. This condition is termed 'idiopathic' because the exact cause is unknown, although it may be associated with factors such as trauma, corticosteroid use, or excessive alcohol consumption. The necrosis leads to bone collapse and can result in significant pain, limited range of motion, and functional impairment. Patients may present with symptoms such as localized tenderness, swelling, and decreased strength in the affected arm. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like X-rays or MRI, which can reveal changes in bone density and structure. Treatment options may include conservative management with rest and physical therapy, or surgical interventions such as bone grafting or joint replacement in severe cases. Understanding the nuances of this condition is crucial for accurate coding and appropriate management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Lack of clear etiology complicates diagnosis.
  • Differentiation from other forms of osteonecrosis is necessary.
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other orthopedic conditions.
  • Documentation must specify the idiopathic nature to avoid misclassification.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the idiopathic nature.
  • Failure to specify the affected bone leading to misclassification.
  • Lack of imaging studies in the medical record.
  • Inconsistent clinical findings reported in the documentation.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with forearm pain, limited mobility, or after trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the idiopathic nature is clearly documented to support the diagnosis.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive imaging reports detailing findings consistent with osteonecrosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Imaging studies requested for patients with unexplained forearm pain.

Billing Considerations

Radiologists should correlate imaging findings with clinical symptoms to aid in accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.036 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M87
  • 036 should be used when the diagnosis of idiopathic aseptic necrosis is confirmed without a specified cause
  • It is important to document the clinical findings and any imaging results that support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.036 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions that are not idiopathic or that have a known cause

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used when aspiration is performed to relieve pain or pressure in the affected area.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and the findings during aspiration.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on clinical findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M87.036, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M87.036, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of idiopathic aseptic necrosis?

The primary cause is unknown, but it may be associated with factors such as trauma, corticosteroid use, or excessive alcohol consumption.

How is idiopathic aseptic necrosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies like X-rays or MRI, and exclusion of other conditions.

What are the treatment options for this condition?

Treatment options may include conservative management such as rest and physical therapy, or surgical interventions like bone grafting or joint replacement in severe cases.