Other chronic osteomyelitis, unspecified radius and ulna

This code signifies a persistent, long-term infection of the bone in an unspecified part of both the radius and ulna. It indicates an ongoing inflammatory process within the bone marrow and cortex, not specified as acute or subacute, and without further anatomical specificity within these forearm bones.

Use this code when documentation clearly states "chronic osteomyelitis" affecting the radius and ulna, but the specific bone (radius or ulna) or the exact location within them is not identified. This code is appropriate when the infection is not acute and the laterality is also unspecified.

• Ensure documentation specifies "chronic" and involves both the radius and ulna without further anatomical detail.
• Avoid using this code if the osteomyelitis is acute, subacute, or if the specific bone (radius or ulna) or location is known; instead, use a more specific code from the M86.6 series.
• Always review for laterality (left, right, bilateral) if specified, as this code is for unspecified laterality.