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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.039

M87.039

Billable

Idiopathic aseptic necrosis of unspecified carpus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.039 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of idiopathic aseptic necrosis of unspecified carpus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Idiopathic aseptic necrosis of the carpus is a condition characterized by the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply, without the presence of infection. This condition can occur in various bones of the wrist (carpal bones) and is often associated with risk factors such as corticosteroid use, alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions like sickle cell disease. The term 'idiopathic' indicates that the exact cause of the necrosis is unknown. Patients may present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the wrist. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of bone damage. Treatment options may include conservative management with rest and physical therapy, or surgical interventions such as core decompression or bone grafting in more severe cases. The condition can lead to significant orthopedic complications if not addressed, including chronic pain and functional impairment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Need for imaging studies to confirm diagnosis
  • Differentiation from other types of necrosis or infections
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting treatment

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the idiopathic nature
  • Failure to document imaging results
  • Misclassification with osteomyelitis or other bone infections
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with wrist pain and limited mobility, requiring imaging to assess for necrosis.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the idiopathic nature and exclusion of other causes of necrosis.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Imaging reports must clearly indicate findings consistent with aseptic necrosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

MRI or X-ray evaluations of wrist pain to rule out necrosis.

Billing Considerations

Accurate interpretation of imaging is crucial for proper coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.039 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 guidelines for coding osteonecrosis, ensuring to document the idiopathic nature and any relevant clinical findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.039 When
  • Exclude codes for infections or other specific conditions that may mimic the presentation

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

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

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient with M87.039 requires joint aspiration for pain relief.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and the diagnosis.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure clear linkage between the diagnosis and the procedure.

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 M87.039, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. It has also increased the need for detailed documentation to support the coding.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M87.039, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. It has also increased the need for detailed documentation to support the coding.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M87.039, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. It has also increased the need for detailed documentation to support the coding.

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 often unknown, but it can be associated with risk factors such as corticosteroid use, alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions.

How is idiopathic aseptic necrosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies like X-rays or MRI, and exclusion of other conditions such as infections or trauma.