ICD-10 Code L89.012 – Pressure ulcer of right elbow, stage 2 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.012 – Pressure ulcer of right elbow, stage 2
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer located on the right elbow with partial-thickness skin loss. Stage 2 means the wound is shallow and may appear as an open blister or a pink-red ulcer bed.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include loss of the epidermis and part of the dermis, with a moist, shallow wound bed. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a stage 2 pressure ulcer specifically on the right elbow. You should confirm both the anatomic site and stage in the note, wound assessment, or problem list.
Do not infer the stage from redness alone or from pressure injury history. If the record only says “pressure ulcer” or gives a different site, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers at another elbow, another body site, or a different stage. It is also wrong for non-pressure skin breakdown or unspecified wounds.
Coding tip
Always match the documented laterality and stage exactly; if either is missing, check documentation before assigning L89.012.