ICD-10 Code L97.3 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of ankle (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.3 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of ankle
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer located at the ankle. It is used when the wound is not caused by pressure injury and documentation supports ankle involvement.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent open sore at the ankle with delayed healing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for depth, laterality, and any associated infection or tissue loss.
When to use this code
Use L97.3 when the record clearly states a chronic ulcer of the ankle and excludes pressure-related injury. You should code it when the provider documents a non-healing ankle wound, ulcer, or chronic skin breakdown at that site. Check documentation for laterality and severity details if required.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers at a different lower-extremity site. If the documentation does not confirm a chronic ankle ulcer, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify the ulcer site and cause first, because “ankle ulcer” alone may be incomplete for accurate coding.