Osteonecrosis due to drugs, left tibia

This diagnosis code signifies the death of bone tissue in the left shin bone (tibia) caused by the use of certain medications. This condition leads to bone collapse and can result in pain and joint dysfunction. It is a serious adverse effect of drug therapy affecting bone viability.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states osteonecrosis of the left tibia and clearly links its etiology to drug use (e.g., corticosteroids, bisphosphonates). Supporting documentation should include imaging reports confirming osteonecrosis and a detailed patient history outlining the causative drug.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "left" tibia; otherwise, an unspecified laterality code may be more appropriate.
• Verify that drug-induced osteonecrosis is clearly stated, not just osteonecrosis from other causes (e.g., trauma, alcoholism).
• Code any associated pathological fractures or other complications separately.