Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, left tibia and fibula

This code signifies an acute bone infection originating from the bloodstream, specifically affecting both the tibia and fibula in the patient's left lower leg. It indicates a rapid onset inflammatory process within the bone marrow and cortical bone, typically caused by bacterial dissemination.

Apply this code for patients presenting with sudden onset pain, swelling, erythema, and fever localized to the left lower leg, with imaging (e.g., X-ray, MRI) and/or laboratory findings (e.g., elevated ESR, CRP, positive blood cultures) confirming acute osteomyelitis. Documentation should clearly specify the hematogenous origin and involvement of both the left tibia and fibula.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "acute" and "hematogenous" to support this specific code.
• Verify laterality (left) and the specific bones involved (tibia and fibula); avoid codes for unspecified sites or chronic forms.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by codes for any associated infectious agents.