M86.452

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A chronic bone infection of the left thighbone (femur) that has created an open drainage channel through the skin, allowing infected material to drain continuously.

Coding Tips

• •Verify laterality is documented as 'left' in the medical record before assigning this code
• •Confirm the presence of a draining sinus tract; if only chronic osteomyelitis without drainage exists, use a different M86.4x code

Clinical Significance

This diagnosis captures chronic osteomyelitis with draining sinus of the left femur, a complex condition affecting the largest bone with active drainage requiring specialized treatment. The femur's critical role in weight-bearing makes this condition particularly concerning for functional outcomes.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Clear documentation of left femur involvement
• ✓Evidence supporting chronic nature (duration >6 weeks or recurrent)
• ✓Confirmation of active draining sinus tract from femur
• ✓Radiographic studies showing chronic osteomyelitic changes
• ✓Functional assessment of left leg and drainage status
• ✓Laboratory findings consistent with chronic infection
• ✓Treatment documentation for both infection and drainage
• ✓Clinical correlation with chronic osteomyelitis with draining sinus

Commonly Confused Codes