ICD-10 Code L97.209 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified calf with unspecified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.209 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified calf with unspecified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic skin ulcer on the calf that is not caused by pressure and whose side and severity are not specified. Use it when documentation confirms a non-pressure ulcer of the calf but leaves key details incomplete.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open sore on the calf with delayed healing, drainage, or surrounding skin breakdown. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L97.209 when the record states a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the calf but does not document laterality or ulcer depth/severity. It also fits when the provider describes a persistent calf ulcer and you cannot assign a more specific code from the note. Check documentation before defaulting to unspecified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers at another anatomic site. If the note specifies laterality or severity, code the more specific option instead.
Coding tip
Query for laterality and ulcer severity when the chart says only “calf ulcer,” because unspecified coding should be a last resort.