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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.173

M87.173

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to drugs, unspecified ankle

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.173 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to drugs, unspecified ankle.

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 M87.173, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to drug use, which can include corticosteroids, chemotherapy agents, and other medications that may compromise blood flow to the bone. The ankle is an important weight-bearing joint, and osteonecrosis in this area can lead to significant pain, limited mobility, and potential joint collapse. Patients may present with symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. 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 pain relief and physical therapy, or surgical interventions such as core decompression or joint replacement in more severe cases. Understanding the underlying cause of osteonecrosis is crucial for effective management and prevention of further complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between drug-induced osteonecrosis and other types of osteonecrosis.
  • Need for detailed documentation of medication history.
  • Potential overlap with other codes related to osteomyelitis and bone infections.
  • Variability in clinical presentation and imaging findings.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of drug history.
  • Failure to specify the affected side of the ankle.
  • Misclassification of osteonecrosis as osteomyelitis.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of medication use, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ankle pain after corticosteroid therapy or chemotherapy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the relationship between drug use and osteonecrosis.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive medication history, including duration and dosage of drugs that may cause osteonecrosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with autoimmune diseases requiring long-term corticosteroid treatment.

Billing Considerations

Monitor for signs of osteonecrosis in patients on high-dose steroids.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.173 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding osteonecrosis, ensuring accurate documentation of the cause (drug
  • related) and the specific site (ankle)
  • Include any relevant history of medication use and imaging findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.173 When
No specific exclusions found.

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 indication for the procedure and any imaging findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists may perform this procedure for symptomatic relief.

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 and manage this condition. M87.173 provides a clear indication of drug-related osteonecrosis, which can enhance treatment planning and outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the ability to track and manage this condition. M87.173 provides a clear indication of drug-related osteonecrosis, which can enhance treatment planning and outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the ability to track and manage this condition. M87.173 provides a clear indication of drug-related osteonecrosis, which can enhance treatment planning and outcomes.

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 medications are commonly associated with osteonecrosis?

Corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, and certain chemotherapy agents are commonly associated with osteonecrosis. It is important to document any relevant medication history when coding.