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 CodesM87.233

M87.233

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma of unspecified radius

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.233 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma of unspecified radius.

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 M87.233, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma affecting the radius, although the exact location on the radius is unspecified. This condition can arise from various types of trauma, including fractures, dislocations, or other injuries that compromise the blood supply to the bone. The resultant ischemia leads to bone cell death, which can cause pain, limited mobility, and potential joint dysfunction. Patients may present with symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the affected area. 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 bone infections. Treatment options may include conservative management, such as physical therapy and pain relief, or surgical interventions like core decompression or joint replacement in advanced 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 accurate documentation of previous trauma history.
  • Differentiation from other bone conditions like osteomyelitis.
  • Potential for multiple treatment options complicating coding.
  • Need for precise imaging results to support diagnosis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of trauma history.
  • Failure to provide imaging results supporting diagnosis.
  • Misclassification of osteonecrosis as osteomyelitis.
  • Lack of detailed treatment plans in medical records.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of trauma, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with pain after a fracture or dislocation of the radius.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the trauma mechanism and any prior treatments.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive imaging reports detailing findings related to osteonecrosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Imaging studies performed to evaluate bone integrity post-trauma.

Billing Considerations

Radiologists should specify the extent of necrosis and any differential diagnoses.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.233 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M87
  • 233 should be used when osteonecrosis is confirmed to be due to previous trauma, and the specific location on the radius is not documented
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and imaging studies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.233 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 joint involved and the reason for the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure clear linkage between the procedure and 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 track and manage this condition. M87.233 provides a clear framework for coding osteonecrosis due to trauma, enhancing data accuracy and patient care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the ability to track and manage this condition. M87.233 provides a clear framework for coding osteonecrosis due to trauma, enhancing data accuracy and patient care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the ability to track and manage this condition. M87.233 provides a clear framework for coding osteonecrosis due to trauma, enhancing data accuracy and patient care.

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 difference between osteonecrosis and osteomyelitis?

Osteonecrosis is the death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply, while osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment and coding.