M86.261

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A bone infection in the right shin bone and smaller bone of the lower leg that develops gradually over weeks to months.

Coding Tips

• •Confirm documentation specifies right tibia and fibula involvement
• •Note whether infection affects one or both bones in the lower leg

Clinical Significance

Subacute osteomyelitis of the right tibia and fibula represents an intermediate-stage bone infection that develops gradually over weeks to months, significantly impacting lower extremity function and ambulation. This dual-bone involvement increases treatment complexity and risk of complications including growth disturbances, chronic infection, and permanent disability.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Clear documentation of subacute osteomyelitis
• ✓Specific identification of right tibia and fibula involvement
• ✓Evidence of infection timeline spanning weeks to months
• ✓Clinical presentation consistent with lower leg bone infection
• ✓Imaging confirmation of osteomyelitis in tibia and/or fibula
• ✓Laboratory findings supporting ongoing infectious process
• ✓Culture results and antibiotic sensitivity testing
• ✓Assessment of weight-bearing ability and gait disturbances

Commonly Confused Codes