M87.273

Billable

Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, unspecified ankle

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

RxHCCHCC 80 — Bone/Joint/Muscle Infections/Necrosis

0.000

What This Code Means

Death of bone tissue in the ankle caused by a previous injury, but the specific side (left or right) is not documented.

Coding Tips

•Use this code only when laterality cannot be determined from medical record
•Query provider if possible to obtain specific laterality for more precise coding

Clinical Significance

Unspecified ankle osteonecrosis following trauma indicates critical joint pathology affecting weight-bearing capacity and mobility. This condition typically requires comprehensive orthopedic evaluation and may significantly impact patient function, necessitating advanced treatment planning and rehabilitation.

Documentation Requirements

✓Documentation of ankle involvement without specified laterality
✓Clear history of previous trauma to ankle area
✓Evidence of bone necrosis in ankle joint structures
✓Justification for unspecified laterality (bilateral involvement or unclear documentation)
✓Current weight-bearing capacity and mobility assessment
✓Joint stability and range of motion evaluation
✓Treatment planning and orthopedic consultation
✓Impact on patient independence and daily functioning

Commonly Confused Codes

M87.271 — Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, right ankle (when laterality is documented)M87.272 — Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, left ankle (when laterality is documented)M87.373 — Other secondary osteonecrosis, unspecified ankle (non-traumatic cause)M87.276 — Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, unspecified foot (different anatomical area)M25.579 — Pain in unspecified ankle (symptom without bone necrosis)

Code Hierarchy

└M87Osteonecrosis └M87.2Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma └M87.27Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, ankle, foot and toes └M87.273Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, unspecified ankle

└M87.273Osteonecrosis due to previous trauma, unspecified ankle