M87.346

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

Death of bone tissue in finger(s) caused by an underlying condition or treatment when the specific finger or side is not documented or applies to multiple fingers.

Coding Tips

• •Use this code only when laterality cannot be determined from documentation
• •Query the provider if documentation specifies right, left, or bilateral to assign more specific codes

Clinical Significance

This diagnosis represents secondary osteonecrosis of finger bones when laterality is not specified, caused by underlying conditions such as corticosteroid therapy or systemic diseases. It requires identification of the causative factor and monitoring for bone collapse and functional impairment.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documentation of osteonecrosis affecting finger(s) without side specification
• ✓Identification of underlying cause (e.g., corticosteroid use, radiation, sickle cell disease)
• ✓Imaging findings confirming bone necrosis (MRI, X-ray, CT)
• ✓Clinical symptoms such as pain, stiffness, or functional impairment
• ✓Duration and progression of condition
• ✓Treatment history and response
• ✓Functional impact on hand use
• ✓Reason why laterality cannot be determined

Commonly Confused Codes