M86.431

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A long-term bone infection in the right forearm bones (radius and ulna) with an open drainage tract allowing infected material to drain through the skin.

Coding Tips

• •This code applies to both radius and ulna on the right side; if only one bone is affected, documentation should still support this code as written
• •Verify right side is documented; use M86.432 for left side involvement

Clinical Significance

Chronic osteomyelitis with draining sinus of the right radius and ulna represents a severe bone infection affecting both forearm bones with persistent drainage, significantly impacting hand and wrist function. The draining component indicates treatment-resistant disease requiring comprehensive management.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Specific documentation of right radius and ulna involvement
• ✓Evidence of chronicity (>6 weeks duration or recurrent episodes)
• ✓Confirmation of active draining sinus tract from forearm bones
• ✓Imaging findings demonstrating chronic osteomyelitic changes
• ✓Assessment of right forearm function and drainage characteristics
• ✓Laboratory markers supporting chronic infectious process
• ✓Treatment history addressing infection and sinus management
• ✓Provider assessment confirming chronic osteomyelitis with drainage

Commonly Confused Codes