731.8  Other bone involvement in diseases classified elsewhere...

This is an nonspecific code.  Your claim COULD be suspended (held up) by insurance companies or third-party payors for further documentation before payment is made.  Also, payment COULD be denied because payors may not be able to determine 'medical necessity' because the code is too generic.  Use EXTREME caution when using this code.  A specific code is a better choice!  If there is no better choice, however, it is always best to review documentation or even consult the physician BEFORE using this code to make sure that you have been as specific as you possibly can.

Yield the use of this code to a primary diagnosis IF one exists.  This code most likely, should not be used on the first line of a claim as the primary diagnosis!  Please note any specific directions to Code first any underlying disease as the primary diagnosis, or most important, reason for the service or procedure provided.