M86.551

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A chronic bone infection of the right thighbone (femur) that developed from bacteria spreading through the bloodstream.

Coding Tips

• •Confirm right femur is documented; this is a common site for hematogenous osteomyelitis
• •Do not use this code if the infection is in the left femur or if laterality is unspecified

Clinical Significance

Chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis of the right femur represents one of the most serious bone infections due to the femur's weight-bearing function and rich vascular supply. This condition often requires prolonged antibiotic therapy and may necessitate surgical intervention, significantly impacting patient mobility and quality of life.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documentation of chronic duration (>6 weeks or recurrent episodes)
• ✓Evidence of hematogenous spread from bloodstream source
• ✓Specific involvement of right femur bone
• ✓Radiographic evidence of bone infection (X-ray, MRI, bone scan)
• ✓Laboratory confirmation (elevated ESR, CRP, positive cultures when available)
• ✓Assessment of functional impairment and mobility limitations
• ✓Documentation of treatment response and complications
• ✓Differentiation from post-traumatic or contiguous spread osteomyelitis

Commonly Confused Codes