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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.129

M87.129

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to drugs, unspecified humerus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.129 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to drugs, unspecified humerus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis, is a condition characterized by the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. In the case of M87.129, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to drug use, which can include corticosteroids, alcohol, and other medications that impair blood flow to the bone. The humerus, being the long bone of the upper arm, can be affected, leading to pain, limited mobility, and potential joint dysfunction. Patients may present with symptoms such as shoulder pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or X-rays to assess the extent of bone damage. Treatment options may include medication, physical therapy, or surgical interventions like core decompression or joint replacement, depending on the severity of the condition. Understanding the underlying causes, including the specific drugs involved, is crucial for effective management and coding.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires knowledge of drug-related osteonecrosis and its implications.
  • Differentiation from other types of osteonecrosis and bone conditions.
  • Documentation must specify the drug causing the condition.
  • Potential for misclassification with similar codes related to bone disorders.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of drug history.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis.
  • Inconsistent clinical notes regarding symptoms.
  • Failure to specify the affected site accurately.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including medication use, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with shoulder pain and a history of corticosteroid use.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly links the drug use to the osteonecrosis diagnosis.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of underlying conditions and medication history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with autoimmune disorders on long-term steroid therapy developing osteonecrosis.

Billing Considerations

Document any comorbid conditions that may contribute to the risk of osteonecrosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.129 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include details about the drug causing the osteonecrosis and the specific site affected
  • induced osteonecrosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.129 When
  • Exclude conditions that do not meet the criteria for drug

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

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

Clinical Scenario

Used for pain management in patients with osteonecrosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and any imaging performed.

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 osteonecrosis, improving the ability to track drug-related cases and their outcomes. This specificity aids in research and quality improvement initiatives.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the ability to track drug-related cases and their outcomes. This specificity aids in research and quality improvement initiatives.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the ability to track drug-related cases and their outcomes. This specificity aids in research and quality improvement initiatives.

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 types of drugs can cause osteonecrosis?

Common drugs associated with osteonecrosis include corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, and certain chemotherapy agents. It's essential to document any relevant medication history.