ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.239

M87.239

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma of unspecified carpus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.239 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma of unspecified carpus.

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 M87.239, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma affecting the carpal bones, which are located in the wrist. This condition can arise following fractures, dislocations, or other significant injuries that compromise the blood flow to the affected area. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the wrist. Over time, if left untreated, osteonecrosis can lead to joint collapse and severe disability. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of bone damage. Treatment options may include conservative measures like rest and physical therapy, or surgical interventions such as core decompression or joint replacement, depending on the severity of the condition. 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

  • Requires understanding of the relationship between trauma and osteonecrosis.
  • Differentiation from other types of osteonecrosis.
  • Need for accurate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting treatment.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Failure to specify the affected carpal bone.
  • Misclassification as osteomyelitis or other bone conditions.
  • 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

Post-traumatic wrist pain, limited mobility after wrist injury.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity on the type of trauma and its timing relative to symptom onset.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Clear imaging reports indicating the presence of osteonecrosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

MRI findings suggestive of avascular necrosis in the wrist.

Billing Considerations

Accurate correlation between imaging findings and clinical symptoms.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.239 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding osteonecrosis, ensuring specificity regarding the cause (previous trauma) and location (unspecified carpus)

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.239 When
  • Exclude conditions that do not meet the criteria for osteonecrosis

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 findings.

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 its cause and affected site, which aids in better patient management and research.

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 its cause and affected site, which aids in better patient management and research.

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 its cause and affected site, which aids in better patient management and research.

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 carpal bones, which disrupts blood supply and leads to bone tissue death.