ICD-10 Code L89.003 – Pressure ulcer of unspecified elbow, stage 3 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.003 – Pressure ulcer of unspecified elbow, stage 3
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer located on the elbow when the laterality is not documented and the wound is staged as stage 3. Stage 3 means full-thickness skin loss with visible subcutaneous tissue.
Clinical signs
You may see a deep open ulcer at the elbow with loss of skin layers and exposed fat, but not exposed bone, tendon, or muscle. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L89.003 when the provider documents a stage 3 pressure injury of the elbow and does not specify right or left side. This code fits inpatient, outpatient, and wound-care records when the diagnosis is clearly stated. If the record gives a different stage or site, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for stage 1, stage 2, unstageable, or deep tissue pressure injuries. Also avoid it if the elbow side is documented, because a laterality-specific code may be more appropriate.
Coding tip
Check the wound note for stage and laterality before assigning L89.003.