Other secondary osteonecrosis, left humerus

This code signifies the death of bone tissue in the left upper arm bone (humerus) due to a cause other than primary osteonecrosis. This bone death is a consequence of an underlying condition, such as prolonged corticosteroid use, trauma, or certain systemic diseases, leading to impaired blood supply to the humeral head.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates osteonecrosis of the left humerus that is secondary to another medical condition or external factor. Supporting documentation should specify the left side and differentiate it from primary (idiopathic) osteonecrosis.

• Always query for laterality if not explicitly stated in the documentation.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "secondary" osteonecrosis; otherwise, a primary osteonecrosis code may be more appropriate.
• Code the underlying cause of the secondary osteonecrosis first, if known and documented.