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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.234

M87.234

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma of right ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.234 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma of right ulna.

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 M87.234, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma affecting the right ulna. This condition can occur following fractures, dislocations, or other injuries that compromise the blood supply to the bone. The right ulna, being one of the two long bones in the forearm, is particularly susceptible to such injuries. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected area. If left untreated, osteonecrosis can lead to joint collapse and significant functional impairment. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of bone damage. Treatment options may range from conservative management, including pain relief and physical therapy, to surgical interventions like bone grafting or joint replacement, depending on the severity of the condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of the relationship between trauma and osteonecrosis.
  • Differentiation from other bone conditions such as osteomyelitis.
  • Need for precise documentation of prior trauma.
  • Potential for multiple codes related to the same injury.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Failure to specify the affected bone.
  • Misclassification of osteonecrosis as osteomyelitis.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of trauma, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures leading to osteonecrosis, post-surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in the documentation of the mechanism of injury and subsequent treatment.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments and rehabilitation plans post-injury.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following trauma-induced osteonecrosis.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of osteonecrosis on functional abilities and rehabilitation goals.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.234 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding osteonecrosis, ensuring accurate documentation of the cause (trauma) and location (right ulna)
  • Include any relevant imaging and treatment details

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.234 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 osteonecrosis cases.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and any imaging findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should note the specific joint involved.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, enabling better tracking of trauma-related cases and improving the accuracy of treatment data.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, enabling better tracking of trauma-related cases and improving the accuracy of treatment data.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, enabling better tracking of trauma-related cases and improving the accuracy of treatment data.

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 osteonecrosis in this code?

The primary cause of osteonecrosis in this code is previous trauma to the right ulna, which disrupts blood supply to the bone.