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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM87.3

M87.3

Billable

Other secondary osteonecrosis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M87.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other secondary osteonecrosis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Other secondary osteonecrosis refers to the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply, which can occur as a result of various underlying conditions or factors. Unlike primary osteonecrosis, which may occur without any identifiable cause, secondary osteonecrosis is often linked to specific medical conditions such as corticosteroid use, alcohol abuse, trauma, or certain diseases like sickle cell disease or systemic lupus erythematosus. The condition can lead to severe pain, limited mobility, and potential joint collapse if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area, often accompanied by a history of risk factors. Imaging studies, particularly MRI, are crucial for diagnosis, as they can reveal early changes in bone marrow and the presence of necrotic bone. 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 etiology and clinical implications of secondary osteonecrosis is essential for effective management and coding.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying conditions leading to osteonecrosis
  • Need for precise documentation of causative factors
  • Differentiation from primary osteonecrosis
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of underlying conditions
  • Failure to specify the location of osteonecrosis
  • Misclassification of primary vs. secondary osteonecrosis
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of the patient's medical conditions, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with a history of corticosteroid use presenting with hip pain.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all contributing factors are documented to support the diagnosis of secondary osteonecrosis.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of systemic diseases that may contribute to osteonecrosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus experiencing joint pain.

Billing Considerations

Document the relationship between systemic conditions and osteonecrosis for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M87.3 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, M87
  • 3 should be used when the osteonecrosis is secondary to another condition
  • Coders must ensure that the underlying cause is documented and that the osteonecrosis is not classified as idiopathic
  • Additionally, the specific site of osteonecrosis must be indicated

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M87.3 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 the joint involved.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on the patient's condition.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, enabling better tracking of secondary causes and improving the accuracy of patient data for research and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of osteonecrosis, enabling better tracking of secondary causes and improving the accuracy of patient data for research and treatment outcomes.

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 are the common causes of secondary osteonecrosis?

Common causes include corticosteroid use, alcohol abuse, trauma, and systemic diseases such as lupus or sickle cell disease.