Other chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis, unspecified hand

This code signifies a persistent, long-term infection of the bone in an unspecified part of the hand, originating from a blood-borne source. It indicates a non-acute inflammatory process within the bone marrow, cortex, or periosteum of the hand, without further specification of the exact bone or laterality.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis" affecting the hand, but the specific bone (e.g., metacarpal, phalanx) or laterality (right/left) is not specified. This is appropriate for cases where the infection has been present for an extended period and is not a direct result of trauma or surgery.

• Always strive for greater specificity regarding the affected hand bone and laterality if documented.
• Distinguish carefully between acute and chronic osteomyelitis; this code is exclusively for chronic forms.
• Do not use this code if the osteomyelitis is due to a contiguous infection or direct inoculation (e.g., post-traumatic, post-surgical).