ICD-10 Code L89.604 – Pressure ulcer of unspecified heel, stage 4 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.604 – Pressure ulcer of unspecified heel, stage 4
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer on the heel when the laterality is not specified and the wound is stage 4. Stage 4 means full-thickness tissue loss with exposed deeper structures.
Clinical signs
You may see an open heel wound with visible fat, muscle, tendon, or bone, or a deep crater-like defect. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the recorded stage and heel location.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record states a pressure ulcer of the heel and documents stage 4, but does not identify right or left heel. It also fits when the provider describes a full-thickness heel ulcer with deeper tissue exposure and laterality is not available. Check documentation if the site or stage is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unstageable ulcers, suspected deep tissue injury, or pressure injuries at other body sites. Do not assign it if the heel side is documented and a more specific code is available.
Coding tip
Confirm both the stage and whether the heel is right, left, or unspecified before coding.