Idiopathic aseptic necrosis of unspecified humerus

This code signifies the death of bone tissue in the humerus due to a lack of blood supply, without an identifiable cause and not related to infection. This condition, also known as avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis, leads to bone collapse and joint destruction. It affects the upper arm bone, specifically when the laterality is not specified.

Apply this code for cases of idiopathic avascular necrosis affecting the humerus when the medical record does not specify whether it's the right or left arm. Documentation should clearly state "idiopathic avascular necrosis of the humerus" or "idiopathic osteonecrosis of the humerus" without further laterality.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "idiopathic" and rules out other causes of avascular necrosis (e.g., traumatic, steroid-induced).
• Always attempt to clarify laterality (right or left humerus) with the provider if not specified, to use a more specific code.
• Do not use this code if the cause of the aseptic necrosis is known; instead, select a code from M87.1-M87.8 that specifies the etiology.