ICD-10 Code L97.304 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified ankle with necrosis of bone (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.304 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified ankle with necrosis of bone
What it is
This code identifies a chronic ulcer on an unspecified ankle that is not caused by pressure and has necrosis of bone. Use it when documentation states bone involvement at the ankle without specifying left or right.
Clinical signs
Expect a persistent open wound with exposed or nonviable bone, often with local tissue breakdown around the ankle. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, depth, and evidence of necrosis.
When to use this code
Use L97.304 when the record clearly documents a chronic non-pressure ankle ulcer and notes necrosis of bone, but does not identify the side. It is appropriate for long-standing ulcers managed as chronic wounds. If the ulcer is due to pressure, trauma, or another cause, choose a different code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers without bone necrosis. Do not assign it when the documentation specifies a different ankle laterality or another anatomic site.
Coding tip
Check the note for laterality and confirm bone necrosis is documented before selecting this code.