ICD 10 CM M85.449 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 M85.449 describes a type of benign bone cyst, also known as a simple bone cyst, that can occur in the hand and is characterized by an empty or fluid-filled cavity within the bone that weakens its structure, with the provider not specifying whether it affects the left or right hand.

Official Description Of M85.449

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code M85.449 as:

When To Use M85.449

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM M85.449 code is a solitary bone cyst that affects the hand. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, weakness in the bones, restricted motion, skin discoloration around the affected bone, bending at an unusual angle, and an inability to bear weight on the affected bone.

Healthcare providers typically diagnose this condition based on a patient’s medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and biopsy if necessary. These tests help in determining the extent of the bone cyst, and the treatment options available.

The diagnostic code does not specify which hand is affected in the patient’s medical record, showing that it applies to either of the two hands. Different factors contribute to the development of bone cysts, including genetics, injury, and trauma, among others.

Treatment options for a solitary bone cyst of the hand involve both surgical and non-surgical management. The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of the bone cyst, and the overall health of the patient. In some cases, a bone cyst may not require any treatment at all, and the healthcare provider may opt for monitoring, to see if it gets worse.

For those requiring treatment, surgical procedures such as aspiration and injection, or curettage and bone graft may be recommended. Aspiration involves the use of a needle to remove fluid from the bone cyst, while injection involves injecting a medication into the cyst to help treat it.

Curettage is a procedure where a surgeon removes the bone cyst’s inner lining and scrapes away the tissues, including any dead bone, to help prevent it from reoccurring. After curettage, a bone graft may be necessary to help restore any bone that was damaged or lost.

Non-surgical management of the bone cyst involves managing any fractures that result due to the condition. Immobilization of the affected area using a cast, brace, or splint can help prevent further damage and promote healing. Over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs may also be used to manage pain and inflammation.

In conclusion, a solitary bone cyst is a condition that affects the hand and can cause a range of symptoms that affect a person’s quality of life. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing the condition, and healthcare providers must look for any underlying factors that may contribute to the development of bone cysts. A range of treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical, is available to help manage the condition and restore bone health.