Osteonecrosis due to drugs, left toe(s)

This code signifies the death of bone tissue in the left toe(s) resulting from the use of certain medications. This condition, also known as avascular necrosis, occurs when the blood supply to the bone is disrupted, leading to bone collapse and potential joint destruction.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states osteonecrosis affecting the left toe(s) and explicitly links its etiology to drug therapy. This includes cases where bisphosphonates, corticosteroids, or other medications are identified as the causative agents.

• Ensure the medical record specifies "left toe(s)" and not a general foot or unspecified toe involvement.
• Always code the underlying drug causing the osteonecrosis as an adverse effect (T36-T50 with a 5th or 6th character of 5) in addition to this code.
• Distinguish from osteonecrosis due to other causes (e.g., trauma, alcoholism, idiopathic) which have different code assignments.