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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.038

M87.038

Billable

Idiopathic aseptic necrosis of left carpus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.038 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of idiopathic aseptic necrosis of left carpus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Idiopathic aseptic necrosis of the left carpus is a condition characterized by the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply, specifically affecting the carpal bones in the wrist. This condition is termed 'idiopathic' because the exact cause remains unknown, although it may be associated with factors such as trauma, corticosteroid use, or excessive alcohol consumption. The necrosis leads to pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the wrist, which can significantly impact daily activities. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of bone damage and to rule out other conditions like osteomyelitis or fractures. Treatment options may include conservative management with rest and immobilization, or surgical interventions such as core decompression or bone grafting in more severe cases. Understanding the nuances of this condition is crucial for accurate coding and appropriate management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Lack of clear etiology complicates documentation.
  • Differentiation from other forms of osteonecrosis is necessary.
  • Potential overlap with other codes related to bone conditions.
  • Need for precise imaging documentation to support diagnosis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings.
  • Failure to specify laterality (left vs. right).
  • Misclassification with other osteonecrosis codes.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with wrist pain, limited mobility, and history of corticosteroid use.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the idiopathic nature and exclusion of other causes of necrosis.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive imaging reports detailing findings related to bone integrity and blood supply.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Imaging studies requested for wrist pain with suspected osteonecrosis.

Billing Considerations

Accurate interpretation of imaging is crucial for supporting the diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.038 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M87
  • 038 should be used when the condition is confirmed as idiopathic and affects the left carpus

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.038 When
  • Exclusion criteria include other specified causes of osteonecrosis or infections

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 wrist pain due to necrosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and any imaging findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists may perform this procedure for symptomatic relief.

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 idiopathic aseptic necrosis, 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 idiopathic aseptic necrosis, 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 idiopathic aseptic necrosis, 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 idiopathic aseptic necrosis?

The primary cause remains unknown, but it may be associated with factors such as trauma, corticosteroid use, or excessive alcohol consumption.

How is idiopathic aseptic necrosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, which help assess the extent of bone damage.

What are the treatment options for this condition?

Treatment options range from conservative management, including rest and immobilization, to surgical interventions like core decompression or bone grafting.