Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, left shoulder

This code signifies the death of bone tissue in the left shoulder joint, specifically caused by a prior traumatic injury. This avascular necrosis results from impaired blood supply to the bone, leading to bone collapse and joint destruction over time.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states osteonecrosis of the left shoulder and explicitly links its etiology to a previous traumatic event. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports (MRI, X-ray) confirming osteonecrosis and a patient history detailing a significant shoulder trauma preceding the diagnosis.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "previous trauma" as the cause; otherwise, a different etiology code for osteonecrosis may be more appropriate.
• Verify laterality (left shoulder) is clearly documented.
• Consider sequencing this code after any acute injury codes if the trauma is recent and still being treated.