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 CodesM87.272

M87.272

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, left ankle

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.272 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, left 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 M87.272, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma to the left ankle. This condition can arise after fractures, dislocations, or other significant injuries that compromise the blood flow to the bone. The affected area may experience pain, swelling, and limited range of motion, which can lead to further complications such as joint degeneration and arthritis if not addressed promptly. 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 physical therapy and pain management, or surgical interventions such as core decompression or joint replacement in 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

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

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Failure to specify the affected site (left ankle).
  • 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

Post-traumatic osteonecrosis following ankle fractures or sprains.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the mechanism of injury and any surgical interventions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments and rehabilitation plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following surgical intervention for osteonecrosis.

Billing Considerations

Document progress and response to therapy to support ongoing treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.272 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M87
  • 272 should be used when osteonecrosis is specifically due to previous trauma
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the left ankle is clearly specified

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.272 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions not related to trauma

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 indication for the procedure and response to treatment.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should document the rationale for joint injections.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

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 M87.272?

The primary cause is previous trauma that disrupts blood supply to the bone, leading to necrosis.