ICD-10 Code L89.813 – Pressure ulcer of head, stage 3 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.813 – Pressure ulcer of head, stage 3
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer on the head with full-thickness skin loss and visible damage into the subcutaneous tissue. Use it when documentation clearly states stage 3 and the site is the head.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a deep open ulcer or crater with fat visible, but no exposed muscle, tendon, or bone. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L89.813 when the provider documents a stage 3 pressure injury located on the head, such as the scalp, and the stage is confirmed in the record. Assign it from the documented pressure ulcer stage and site, not from presumed severity.
If the note describes a different stage, an unstageable wound, or a non-pressure skin lesion, this code is not appropriate. Check documentation when the site or stage is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for stage 1, 2, or 4 pressure ulcers, or for ulcers at other body sites. Do not use it when the record does not specifically support a pressure ulcer diagnosis.
Coding tip
Capture both the pressure ulcer stage and exact head location from the provider’s documentation before assigning L89.813.