ICD-10-CM Billable Code

M89.73

Major osseous defect, forearm

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Inclusion Terms

  • Major osseous defect of radius and ulna

Medical Intelligence & Overview

A major osseous defect of the forearm, classified under ICD-10 code M89.73, involves significant damage or loss of bone tissue in the radius and ulna, the two long bones in the forearm. Such defects can result from trauma, infection, or other medical conditions, and often require specialized treatment to restore function and structure to the forearm. This condition can impact hand movement, wrist stability, and overall arm strength, making medical diagnosis and management crucial.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Severe fractures that involve extensive bone damage Complex traumatic injuries leading to bone loss Bone infections (osteomyelitis) causing destruction of bone tissue Osteonecrosis or avascular necrosis resulting in bone death Tumors affecting the radius and ulna resulting in bone removal or destruction Surgical removal of diseased bone tissue due to infection or malignancy

Key Symptoms: Persistent pain in the forearm Swelling and tenderness around the affected area Visible deformity or deformity on physical examination Limited range of motion at the wrist or elbow Weakness or loss of function in the hand or arm Possible skin changes over the defect site, such as ulceration or open wound

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing a major osseous defect of the forearm involves a combination of medical history review and physical examination. Imaging studies are vital to assess the extent of bone damage. These may include:

Treatment Protocols: Management of a major osseous defect in the forearm typically requires a multidisciplinary approach. Treatment options depend on the severity of the defect, underlying cause, and patient health status. Common therapies include:

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is M89.73 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, M89.73 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report M89.73?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Major osseous defect, forearm and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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