ICD 10 CM M87.837 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 M87.837 describes a specific type of osteonecrosis that occurs due to damage to blood vessels, leading to a disruption in the blood supply to the affected bone, ultimately resulting in bone death, and is identified by the provider as a type of osteonecrosis that is not represented by any other code, and specifically involves the right carpus or wrist.

Official Description Of M87.837

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code M87.837 as:

When To Use M87.837

The diagnosis describes by ICD-10-CM M87.837 refers to a medical condition called osteonecrosis, also known as avascular, aseptic, or ischemic necrosis. It occurs when the blood supply to a bone is disrupted, leading to bone cell death. This condition can affect different parts of the body, including the wrist, which is the focus of this article.

When a person has osteonecrosis of the right wrist, it can cause gradually increasing pain, limited range of motion, and, in severe cases, numbness if the condition affects the nerves. Patients may also experience limping if the condition affects the lower extremities.

To diagnose osteonecrosis in the right wrist, healthcare providers take a multifaceted approach. The first step is to gather the patient’s medical history and carry out a physical examination. The patient’s medical history can provide valuable information about the possible causes of the condition, such as whether they have a history of trauma, steroid use, or alcohol consumption. A physical examination can reveal any swelling, redness, or limited movement in the affected wrist.

Providers may also recommend imaging tests to aid in the diagnosis. X-rays are the most common imaging tests used to detect bone abnormalities. In some cases, a CT scan, MRI, or bone scan may be necessary to provide a detailed image of the affected bone. A DXA scan can also be performed to check the bone mineral density in the affected area.

Laboratory examinations can also help to diagnose osteonecrosis of the right wrist. A blood test may be conducted to check the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), which can indicate the presence of inflammation in the body.

In some cases, a healthcare provider may suggest an arthroscopy or bone biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. During an arthroscopy, the doctor inserts a tiny camera into the wrist to examine the bone and tissues. A bone biopsy involves removing a small sample of bone tissue to be examined under a microscope.

Treatment options for osteonecrosis of the right wrist include reducing weightbearing, range of motion exercises, and electromagnetic stimulation to encourage new bone growth. Epidural or nerve blocks can be used to reduce pain, and an orthosis, such as a brace or splint, can assist in immobilizing the wrist. Medications such as analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also help manage symptoms. In extreme cases where permanent damage to blood vessels has occurred, surgery may be necessary.

In conclusion, osteonecrosis of the right wrist can cause significant discomfort and functional limitations for individuals experiencing this condition. It is essential to diagnose the disease promptly and accurately so that appropriate management can be initiated. Healthcare providers may utilize various diagnostic tools to diagnose osteonecrosis of the right wrist, including medical history, physical examination, imaging tests, laboratory examinations, and arthroscopy or bone biopsy. Treatment options are available to manage the symptoms, and it is vital to seek medical attention as soon as osteonecrosis is suspected.