Osteonecrosis due to drugs, other site

This code signifies the death of bone tissue (osteonecrosis) in an anatomical location other than the hip, shoulder, ankle, foot, or jaw, where the primary cause is attributed to the use of specific medications. This condition results from an interruption of blood supply to the bone, leading to bone collapse and potential joint destruction.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links osteonecrosis in a site like the wrist, elbow, or spine to drug therapy, such as corticosteroids or bisphosphonates. Ensure the medical record specifies the affected bone and explicitly states the drug as the causative agent.

• Always sequence the drug causing the osteonecrosis (T36-T50 with 5th or 6th character for adverse effect) as an additional diagnosis.
• Do not use this code for osteonecrosis of the hip (M87.12-), shoulder (M87.11-), ankle/foot (M87.17-), or jaw (M87.17-).
• Verify the specific drug implicated and its adverse effect before assigning this code.