Other chronic osteomyelitis, multiple sites

This code signifies a persistent, long-standing infection of bone tissue affecting multiple distinct anatomical locations. It indicates an inflammatory process that has become chronic, often characterized by recurrent exacerbations and periods of remission, and is not specified as a particular type of chronic osteomyelitis.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "chronic osteomyelitis" involving more than one bone, and no further specificity (e.g., multifocal, post-traumatic) is provided. Supporting documentation should detail the chronic nature of the infection and identify the various affected skeletal sites.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "chronic" and "multiple sites" for accurate code assignment.
• Distinguish from acute osteomyelitis (M86.0-) and subacute osteomyelitis (M86.1-), which have different code assignments.
• Always code any associated infectious organism (e.g., B95-B97) as an additional diagnosis, if identified.