Osteonecrosis due to drugs, unspecified femur

This code signifies the death of bone tissue in an unspecified femur due to the adverse effects of medication. This condition, also known as avascular necrosis, results from an interruption of blood supply to the femoral head or shaft, leading to bone collapse and joint destruction. The drug-induced etiology is a key distinguishing factor.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links osteonecrosis of the femur to a specific drug or class of drugs, but the laterality (right or left) is not specified. Common culprits include corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, and certain immunosuppressants. Ensure the physician's notes explicitly state the drug-induced nature of the osteonecrosis.

• Always seek clarification from the provider if laterality of the affected femur is not documented.
• Code the specific drug causing the osteonecrosis using an adverse effect T-code (T36-T50) as a secondary diagnosis.
• Do not use this code for osteonecrosis due to trauma, alcoholism, or other non-drug-related causes.