ICD-10 Code L97.122 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left thigh with fat layer exposed (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.122 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left thigh with fat layer exposed
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the left thigh with exposed subcutaneous fat. Use it when documentation specifies the ulcer site and depth.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, you may see an open wound on the left thigh with visible fat tissue, persistent breakdown, and delayed healing without pressure as the cause.
When to use this code
Use L97.122 when the provider documents a chronic ulcer on the left thigh and states that fat layer is exposed. You should assign it only for non-pressure ulcers, not for traumatic or surgical wounds.
If the record identifies laterality, location, and depth clearly, this code is appropriate. Check documentation when the cause, chronicity, or tissue level is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers without exposed fat layer. It is also incorrect when the site is not the left thigh.
Coding tip
Confirm the ulcer is non-pressure and that the documentation supports both left-sided location and fat layer exposure before coding.