Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, left hand

This code signifies the death of bone tissue in the left hand resulting from a prior traumatic injury. This condition, also known as avascular necrosis, occurs when the blood supply to a section of bone is disrupted, leading to bone collapse and potential joint destruction.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates osteonecrosis of the left hand and explicitly links its etiology to a previous traumatic event. Supporting documentation should include imaging reports (e.g., X-ray, MRI) confirming osteonecrosis and a patient history detailing the relevant trauma.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "left hand" to avoid laterality errors.
• Distinguish from osteonecrosis due to other causes (e.g., steroid-induced, idiopathic) which have different code assignments.
• Always sequence this code after the primary diagnosis if the osteonecrosis is a complication of another condition being treated.