ICD-10 Code L89.40 – Pressure ulcer of contiguous site of back, buttock and hip, unspecified stage (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.40 – Pressure ulcer of contiguous site of back, buttock and hip, unspecified stage
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer involving a contiguous area of the back, buttock, and hip, when the stage is not documented. Use it for a pressure injury in this combined anatomic region without a specified depth.
Clinical signs
Findings may include localized skin breakdown, discoloration, tenderness, or an open wound over the back, buttock, and hip region. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for stage, depth, and tissue involvement.
When to use this code
Use L89.40 when the record clearly states a pressure ulcer of the contiguous back, buttock, and hip area and does not provide a stage. It also fits when documentation confirms the location but stage cannot be determined. If the provider later documents a stage, code the more specific stage instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers at a single site outside the combined back, buttock, and hip region. Do not use it when the stage is documented or when the lesion is a different type of wound; check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm that the ulcer spans the contiguous site and that no stage is recorded before assigning L89.40.