Major osseous defect, left humerus

This diagnosis code signifies a significant structural loss of bone tissue in the left humerus, the long bone of the upper arm. This defect is substantial enough to be considered "major," implying a considerable disruption to the bone's integrity and function, often resulting from trauma, infection, tumor resection, or congenital anomalies.

This code is appropriate when documentation clearly indicates a large or extensive osseous defect specifically located in the left humerus. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports (X-ray, CT, MRI) detailing the size and location of the defect, operative reports describing bone loss during surgery, or physician notes explicitly stating a "major osseous defect" of the left humerus.

• Ensure laterality is precisely documented and matches the code (left humerus).
• Distinguish "major" defects from lesser bone loss or simple fractures; the documentation must support the "major" classification.
• Always code the underlying cause of the osseous defect (e.g., fracture, osteomyelitis, tumor) in addition to this code.