ICD-10 Code L97.308 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified ankle with other specified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.308 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified ankle with other specified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer located on an ankle when the side is not specified. Use it when the record describes the ulcer severity as “other specified” and does not fit a more specific ulcer depth category.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent open wound at the ankle with delayed healing, drainage, or surrounding skin changes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for ulcer location, laterality, and severity details.
When to use this code
Use L97.308 when the provider documents a chronic ankle ulcer and does not identify the ankle as right or left. It is appropriate when the severity is documented as other specified, and no more specific non-pressure ulcer code applies. Check documentation if the depth or laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers at a different site. Also avoid it when the record clearly specifies right or left ankle or a different ulcer severity.
Coding tip
Verify ankle laterality and ulcer severity in the note before assigning L97.308.