ICD-10 Code L89.123 – Pressure ulcer of left upper back, stage 3 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.123 – Pressure ulcer of left upper back, stage 3
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer on the left upper back with full-thickness skin loss. Stage 3 means the wound extends into subcutaneous tissue but does not expose muscle, tendon, or bone.
Clinical signs
Look for an open ulcer over the left upper back with visible depth and full-thickness tissue loss. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for staging details such as slough, undermining, or exposed structures.
When to use this code
Use L89.123 when the record clearly documents a pressure ulcer on the left upper back and identifies it as stage 3. The site and stage should be supported by provider documentation or wound assessment. If the stage is not documented, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for stage 1, stage 2, unstageable, or deep tissue pressure injuries. It also should not be assigned if the ulcer location is different or the stage is uncertain.
Coding tip
Confirm both the anatomic site and the stage in the chart before assigning L89.123.