ICD-10-CM Billable Code

M87.821

Other osteonecrosis, right humerus

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis, is a condition that occurs when blood flow to a bone segment is disrupted, leading to the death of bone tissue. When affecting the right humerus—the upper arm bone—this condition can cause pain, weakness, and limited movement. The specific ICD-10 code M87.821 refers to osteonecrosis located in the right humerus, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment approaches to prevent joint damage and improve quality of life.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Trauma or injury to the upper arm, such as fractures or dislocations. Chronic use of high-dose corticosteroids. Excessive alcohol consumption. Certain medical conditions like sickle cell disease or Gaucher's disease. Blood clotting disorders that impair circulation. Radiation therapy to the shoulder region. Bone marrow diseases or infections affecting blood supply. Idiopathic causes, where no specific reason is identified.

Key Symptoms: Persistent shoulder pain, often worsening with activity. Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint. Tenderness over the affected area. Weakness in the arm and shoulder muscles. Swelling or inflammation around the shoulder. Crepitus, or a grating sensation during shoulder movement. In advanced stages, muscle wasting around the shoulder. Possible pain radiating down the arm or into the elbow.

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing osteonecrosis of the right humerus involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Healthcare professionals may order the following:

Treatment Protocols: Managing osteonecrosis of the right humerus aims to relieve pain, prevent further bone damage, and restore function. Treatment options may 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 M87.821 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, M87.821 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report M87.821?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Other osteonecrosis, right humerus and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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