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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.138

M87.138

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to drugs of left carpus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.138 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to drugs of left 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 M87.138, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to the use of certain medications, which can disrupt blood flow to the bone. The left carpus, comprising the eight small bones in the wrist, is particularly susceptible to this condition due to its vascular supply. Common drugs associated with osteonecrosis include corticosteroids and bisphosphonates. Patients may present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the wrist. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or X-rays, which can reveal changes in bone density and structure. Treatment options may include medication adjustments, physical therapy, or surgical interventions such as core decompression or joint replacement, depending on the severity of the condition. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent further joint deterioration and maintain function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of the drug causing osteonecrosis
  • Need for detailed documentation of medication history
  • Differentiation from other types of osteonecrosis
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of drug history
  • Failure to specify the affected anatomical site
  • Misclassification of osteonecrosis as osteomyelitis
  • Lack of imaging results to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on patient history, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with wrist pain after corticosteroid therapy or with a history of bisphosphonate use.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the relationship between drug use and osteonecrosis.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive medication history and assessment of underlying conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with autoimmune disorders on long-term corticosteroids presenting with joint pain.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for medication use and any changes in therapy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.138 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding osteonecrosis, ensuring to document the specific drug causing the condition
  • Include any relevant clinical findings and imaging results

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.138 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 medications administered.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure clear documentation of joint involvement.

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 accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M87.138 provides a clear link between drug use and the condition, which is essential for appropriate treatment and management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M87.138 provides a clear link between drug use and the condition, which is essential for appropriate treatment and management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. M87.138 provides a clear link between drug use and the condition, which is essential for appropriate treatment and management.

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 medications are commonly associated with osteonecrosis?

Corticosteroids and bisphosphonates are the most commonly associated medications with osteonecrosis. Other drugs, such as certain chemotherapy agents, may also contribute.