M87: Osteonecrosis

M87.9: Osteonecrosis, unspecified

Osteonecrosis, unspecified, refers to a condition where there is death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply, also known as avascular necrosis. This could occur in any bone, but most frequently affects the hips, knees, shoulders, and ankles. The process can lead to tiny breaks in the bone and the bone's eventual collapse. The onset of symptoms might be sudden or gradual, often involving joint pain which usually becomes worse over time. The source of the disrupted blood flow is often not known, but it can relate to trauma to the bone, long-term use of corticosteroids and excessive alcohol consumption. It typically affects people aged 30 to 60 and it can significantly impair physical function.