Learn about osteomyelitis of the toe, including clinical documentation tips, ICD-10 codes (M86.67), medical coding guidelines, and healthcare best practices for diagnosis and treatment. This resource provides information for physicians, coders, and other healthcare professionals on accurately documenting and coding toe osteomyelitis, covering symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options. Find essential information for proper medical record keeping and accurate claims submission related to osteomyelitis in the toe.
Also known as
Osteomyelitis of toe
Infectious inflammation of the bone in a toe.
Osteomyelitis of other bones
Infectious inflammation of bones excluding specific sites like the toe.
Other osteopathies
Non-inflammatory bone diseases which might coexist with osteomyelitis.
Diseases of the nervous system
Neuropathic complications that sometimes contribute to osteomyelitis.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the osteomyelitis acute?
Yes
Site specified?
No
Is it chronic?
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Osteomyelitis of toe |
Cellulitis of toe |
Septic arthritis of toe |
Coding osteomyelitis of the toe without specifying affected toe (right/left, which toe) leads to claim rejections and inaccurate data.
Failing to document and code the underlying cause (e.g., diabetic foot ulcer, trauma) impacts DRG assignment and reimbursement.
Incorrectly coding acute or chronic osteomyelitis affects severity reflection, quality reporting, and proper treatment plans.
Patient presents with signs and symptoms suggestive of osteomyelitis of the toe. Chief complaint includes toe pain, swelling, redness, and warmth, possibly accompanied by fever, chills, or drainage. Onset of symptoms is documented as gradual or acute, with duration of (duration). The affected toe is (specify toe and laterality). Physical examination reveals (describe findings, e.g., tenderness to palpation, erythema, edema, fluctuance, limited range of motion). Differential diagnosis includes cellulitis, gout, septic arthritis, and diabetic foot infection. Medical history is significant for (list relevant comorbidities, e.g., diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular disease, immunocompromised state). Surgical history, social history (including tobacco use, IV drug use), and allergies are noted. Laboratory studies ordered include complete blood count with differential, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and blood cultures. Imaging studies, such as plain radiographs, MRI, or bone scan, may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of osteomyelitis and assess the extent of bone involvement. Preliminary diagnosis is osteomyelitis of the toe. Treatment plan includes antibiotic therapy with (specify antibiotic and route of administration), pain management with (specify medication), and elevation of the affected extremity. Patient education provided on wound care, medication adherence, and follow-up appointments. Referral to a specialist, such as an infectious disease physician, podiatrist, or orthopedic surgeon, may be considered based on clinical presentation and response to initial treatment. The patient's condition and treatment plan will be closely monitored.