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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.236

M87.236

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma of unspecified ulna

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.236 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma of unspecified 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 M87.236, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma affecting the ulna, which is one of the two long bones in the forearm. Trauma can lead to compromised blood flow, resulting in the death of bone cells and subsequent structural weakening. Patients may present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected area. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess bone integrity and identify necrotic areas. Treatment options may include conservative management, such as physical therapy and pain relief, or surgical interventions like core decompression or joint replacement in severe cases. The unspecified nature of the ulna in this code indicates that the specific location of the necrosis within the ulna is not detailed, which can complicate treatment planning and documentation.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Unspecified location of the ulna complicates treatment specificity.
  • Differentiation from other bone conditions like osteomyelitis.
  • Requires thorough documentation of prior trauma history.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting treatment outcomes.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Failure to specify the location of necrosis.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis.
  • Inconsistent coding of related conditions.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with pain in the forearm post-injury, requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all imaging and treatment modalities are documented to support the diagnosis.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments and rehabilitation plans post-trauma.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation after surgical intervention for osteonecrosis.

Billing Considerations

Documenting progress and functional outcomes is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.236 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M87
  • 236 should be used when osteonecrosis is confirmed due to previous trauma, and the specific location of the ulna is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support the diagnosis and treatment plan

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.236 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 the indication for the procedure and any imaging performed.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure that the procedure is linked to the diagnosis.

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 capture the nuances of the condition, including the impact of prior trauma. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the ability to capture the nuances of the condition, including the impact of prior trauma. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the ability to capture the nuances of the condition, including the impact of prior trauma. This specificity aids in better treatment planning and resource allocation.

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 that has compromised blood supply to the ulna.