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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.279

M87.279

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, unspecified toe(s)

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.279 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, unspecified toe(s).

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 M87.279, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma affecting the toe(s). This condition can lead to severe pain, limited mobility, and potential joint dysfunction. The trauma may result from fractures, dislocations, or other injuries that compromise the blood supply to the affected area. Over time, the lack of blood flow can cause the bone to weaken and collapse, leading to further complications such as osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone. The toes, being critical for balance and mobility, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life when affected by osteonecrosis. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of bone damage. Treatment options may include conservative management, such as pain relief and physical therapy, or surgical interventions like core decompression 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 types of osteonecrosis and bone conditions.
  • Need for precise documentation of prior trauma.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting the toes.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Failure to specify the affected toe(s).
  • Misclassification with other osteonecrosis codes.
  • 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

Patients presenting with toe pain following a fracture or injury.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly link the trauma to the osteonecrosis for accurate coding.

Podiatry

Documentation Requirements

Foot examination findings, history of trauma, and any surgical interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic pain in the toes post-injury.

Billing Considerations

Focus on the functional impact of the condition on ambulation and daily activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.279 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M87
  • 279 should be used when osteonecrosis is specifically due to previous trauma and the affected toe(s) are unspecified
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the trauma history is clearly outlined

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.279 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 when injecting corticosteroids into the affected toe joint.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and the specific joint involved.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on the patient's osteonecrosis.

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. M87.279 provides a clear indication of the cause of the condition, which is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.

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. M87.279 provides a clear indication of the cause of the condition, which is essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 coded as M87.279 is previous trauma to the toe(s), which disrupts blood supply and leads to bone tissue death.