Osteonecrosis due to drugs of unspecified carpus

This code signifies the death of bone tissue in an unspecified carpal bone, specifically attributed to the use of certain medications. This condition, also known as avascular necrosis, results from an interruption of blood supply to the bone, leading to its collapse and potential joint destruction.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states osteonecrosis of a carpal bone is drug-induced, but the specific carpal bone affected is not identified. This diagnosis is typically supported by imaging studies (e.g., X-ray, MRI) showing bone necrosis, coupled with a patient history of medication use known to cause osteonecrosis (e.g., corticosteroids, bisphosphonates).

• Ensure the medical record explicitly links the osteonecrosis to drug use.
• If the specific carpal bone is identified (e.g., scaphoid, lunate), use a more specific code from the M87.13- subcategory.
• Sequence this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity.