ICD-10 Coding for Osteomyelitis of the Foot(M86.071, M86.072)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Osteomyelitis of the Foot. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Osteomyelitis of the Foot
M86.0-M86.9Primary Range
Osteomyelitis
This range includes codes for different types of osteomyelitis, including acute, subacute, and chronic, with specifications for site and laterality.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M86.071 | Chronic osteomyelitis, right ankle and foot | Use when chronic osteomyelitis is confirmed in the right foot with specific clinical indicators. |
|
| M86.072 | Chronic osteomyelitis, left ankle and foot | Use when chronic osteomyelitis is confirmed in the left foot with specific clinical indicators. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for osteomyelitis foot
Essential facts and insights about Osteomyelitis of the Foot
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for osteomyelitis foot
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Chronic symptoms with positive imaging and biopsy results.
Applicable To
- Chronic osteomyelitis of the right foot
Excludes
- Acute osteomyelitis (M86.17-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ESR >65 mm/hr
- Wound size ≥2 cm²
- Positive bone biopsy
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-documentation if laterality or chronicity is not specified.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies chronicity and laterality.
M86.072 - Chronic osteomyelitis, left ankle and foot
Use when chronic osteomyelitis is confirmed in the left foot with specific clinical indicators.
Applicable To
- Chronic osteomyelitis of the left foot
Excludes
- Acute osteomyelitis (M86.17-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ESR >65 mm/hr
- Wound size ≥2 cm²
- Positive bone biopsy
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies chronicity and laterality.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus with skin complications
E11.62Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Other acute osteomyelitis, foot
M86.17-Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Osteomyelitis of the Foot to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M86.071.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement for related complications.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the underlying cause of osteomyelitis., Link diabetes to osteomyelitis in the medical record.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to non-specific coding., Data Quality: Impacts data quality and accuracy in patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies laterality and type (acute or chronic).
Impact
High risk of audit when using unspecified codes like M86.9.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation is complete and specific.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Osteomyelitis of the Foot, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Osteomyelitis of the Foot
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Osteomyelitis of the Foot. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic osteomyelitis in a diabetic patient
Specialty: PodiatryRequired Elements
- Patient demographics
- Diabetes status and management
- Foot ulcer details
- Imaging and biopsy results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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