Chronic osteomyelitis with draining sinus, left femur

This code signifies a persistent, long-term infection of the left femur bone, characterized by the presence of a draining sinus tract. This sinus is an abnormal channel that allows pus and inflammatory debris to exit the infected bone to the skin surface. The chronic nature implies the infection has been ongoing for an extended period, often resistant to initial treatments.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates chronic osteomyelitis affecting the left femur, specifically noting the presence of a draining sinus. This typically follows failed acute treatment or a prolonged course of infection. Supporting documentation includes imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, bone scan) showing chronic osteomyelitis changes, culture results, and physician notes describing the draining sinus.

• Ensure documentation specifies "chronic" osteomyelitis and the presence of a "draining sinus" for accurate code assignment.
• Laterality is crucial; verify the infection is explicitly documented as affecting the "left femur."
• Do not confuse with acute osteomyelitis (M86.0-M86.3) or chronic osteomyelitis without a draining sinus (M86.6-).