M87.335

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

Death of bone tissue in the left forearm bone (ulna) caused by an underlying condition or injury, resulting in bone deterioration and potential collapse.

Coding Tips

• •Document the etiology of secondary osteonecrosis to support medical necessity and potential causation
• •Confirm left side laterality is documented in the clinical record to justify this specific code selection

Clinical Significance

Left ulna secondary osteonecrosis indicates bone death from identifiable non-traumatic causes affecting the dominant forearm in most patients. This condition significantly impacts forearm mechanics and may require surgical intervention to preserve function and prevent collapse.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Clear documentation of secondary cause of osteonecrosis
• ✓Radiological evidence of bone necrosis in left ulna
• ✓Clinical assessment demonstrating left forearm impairment
• ✓History of risk factors or predisposing conditions
• ✓Exclusion of trauma and idiopathic causes
• ✓Documentation of functional limitations and symptoms
• ✓Provider correlation of secondary etiology
• ✓Evidence of compromised bone viability through imaging

Commonly Confused Codes