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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.251

M87.251

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, right femur

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.251 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, right femur.

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 M87.251, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma to the right femur. This condition often arises after fractures, dislocations, or other significant injuries that compromise the blood supply to the bone. The right femur, being a weight-bearing bone, is particularly susceptible to the consequences of osteonecrosis, which can lead to severe pain, limited mobility, and potential joint collapse if not addressed promptly. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as hip pain, groin pain, or referred pain to the knee. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or X-rays, which can reveal changes in bone density and structure. 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 bone necrosis.
  • Need for precise documentation of prior trauma.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Failure to specify the affected site (right femur).
  • 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 hip fractures or dislocations.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear linkage between trauma and osteonecrosis in documentation.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Clear imaging reports indicating signs of osteonecrosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

MRI findings showing bone marrow edema or necrosis.

Billing Considerations

Radiologists should specify the location and extent of necrosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.251 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M87
  • 251 should be used when osteonecrosis is directly linked to previous trauma
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the specific site is clearly indicated

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.251 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 osteonecrosis cases.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the procedure and any imaging findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure proper linkage to 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 accuracy of claims and facilitating better patient management through detailed documentation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of claims and facilitating better patient management through detailed documentation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of claims and facilitating better patient management through detailed documentation.

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 M87.251?

The primary cause of osteonecrosis in M87.251 is previous trauma that disrupts blood supply to the right femur, leading to bone tissue death.