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 CodesM87.265

M87.265

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, left fibula

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.265 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, left fibula.

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 M87.265, the osteonecrosis is specifically attributed to previous trauma affecting the left fibula. This condition can arise after fractures, dislocations, or other injuries that compromise the blood supply to the bone. The fibula, being a long bone in the lower leg, can suffer from osteonecrosis due to its vascular supply being disrupted. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected limb. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of bone damage. Treatment options may vary from conservative management, including pain relief and physical therapy, to surgical interventions like bone grafting or joint replacement in severe 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 multiple codes if associated conditions are present.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of prior trauma.
  • Failure to specify the affected site accurately.
  • Misclassification with osteomyelitis or other bone conditions.
  • 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-fracture complications, chronic pain management, surgical interventions.

Billing Considerations

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

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Clear imaging reports indicating the presence of osteonecrosis and any associated findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Imaging for suspected osteonecrosis, follow-up imaging for treatment evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Accurate reporting of imaging findings is crucial for proper coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.265 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M87
  • 265 should be used when there is clear documentation of osteonecrosis due to previous trauma specifically affecting the left fibula
  • It is important to ensure that the cause of osteonecrosis is well
  • documented and that other potential causes, such as osteomyelitis, are ruled out

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.265 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 often 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 osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning. M87.265 provides a clear indication of the condition's etiology and location, which is essential for effective management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like osteonecrosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning. M87.265 provides a clear indication of the condition's etiology and location, which is essential for effective management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and to avoid denials.

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.