M86.032

Billable

Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, left radius and ulna

HCC Category Mapping

V28HCC 92 — Bone/Joint/Muscle Infections/Necrosis

0.209

V24HCC 39 — Bone/Joint/Muscle Infections/Necrosis

0.482

ESRDHCC 39 — Bone/Joint/Muscle Infections/Necrosis

0.000

What This Code Means

A serious bone infection of the left forearm bones (radius and ulna) caused by bacteria spreading through the bloodstream.

Coding Tips

•Verify left side documentation to differentiate from right forearm infection
•The radius and ulna are the two bones of the forearm between elbow and wrist

Clinical Significance

Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis of left radius and ulna represents serious bloodstream-spread infection affecting both left forearm bones, requiring immediate intensive treatment to prevent devastating functional consequences. This diagnosis indicates high complexity due to dual bone involvement with risks for compartment syndrome and permanent disability.

Documentation Requirements

✓Documentation of acute osteomyelitis in left radius and ulna
✓Clear evidence of hematogenous spread to both forearm bones
✓Clinical examination showing left forearm involvement
✓Imaging studies demonstrating infection in both bones
✓Microbiological workup with blood and tissue cultures
✓Aggressive treatment with IV antibiotics and surgery
✓Monitoring for compartment syndrome and vascular compromise

Commonly Confused Codes

M86031 — Right radius and ulna osteomyelitis M86132 — Other acute osteomyelitis, left radius and ulna S52.502A — Fracture of left radius, unspecified M00.832 — Other bacterial arthritis, left wrist T79.A12A — Compartment syndrome of left upper extremity

Code Hierarchy

└M86Osteomyelitis └M86.0Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis └M86.03Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, radius and ulna └M86.032Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, left radius and ulna

└M86.032Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, left radius and ulna