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 CodesM87.261

M87.261

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, right tibia

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.261 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, right tibia.

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 M87.261, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma affecting the right tibia. This condition often arises after fractures, dislocations, or other significant injuries that compromise the blood supply to the bone. The right tibia, being a weight-bearing bone, is particularly susceptible to the effects of osteonecrosis, leading to pain, limited mobility, and potential joint dysfunction. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area, which can worsen with activity. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, including X-rays or MRI, to assess the extent of bone damage and to rule out other conditions such as osteomyelitis or fractures. Treatment options may include conservative management with pain relief and physical therapy, or surgical interventions such as 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 understanding of the relationship between trauma and osteonecrosis.
  • Differentiation from other bone conditions like osteomyelitis.
  • Need for precise documentation of prior trauma.
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Misdiagnosis or confusion with osteomyelitis.
  • Failure to document the severity of symptoms.
  • Inconsistent coding of related procedures.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-traumatic osteonecrosis following tibial fractures or surgeries.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the mechanism of injury and any surgical interventions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments and rehabilitation plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following surgical intervention for osteonecrosis.

Billing Considerations

Documenting progress and functional outcomes is critical for coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.261 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M87
  • 261 should be used when osteonecrosis is directly linked to previous trauma
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the trauma history is clearly outlined
  • traumatic causes

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.261 When
  • Exclusion criteria include cases where osteonecrosis is due to non

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

20610CPT Code

Arthrocentesis, aspiration and/or injection into a major joint or bursa

Clinical Scenario

Used when joint aspiration is performed due to complications from osteonecrosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for aspiration and findings.

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 accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. M87.261 provides a clear link between trauma and the resulting condition, which is essential for appropriate reimbursement and care management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. M87.261 provides a clear link between trauma and the resulting condition, which is essential for appropriate reimbursement and care management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and care 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 is the primary cause of osteonecrosis coded as M87.261?

The primary cause is previous trauma to the right tibia, which disrupts blood supply to the bone, leading to necrosis.