ICD-10 Code L97.311 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of right ankle limited to breakdown of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.311 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of right ankle limited to breakdown of skin
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the right ankle that is limited to breakdown of the skin. It means the wound is superficial and has not extended into deeper tissue layers.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open sore at the right ankle with skin loss, drainage, or a shallow ulcer base. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for depth, laterality, and whether the ulcer is non-pressure in origin.
When to use this code
Use L97.311 when the record clearly documents a chronic ulcer on the right ankle and specifies that it is limited to skin breakdown. The ulcer should be non-pressure, not a traumatic wound, and not described as deeper than skin. If the documentation only says “ulcer” without location or depth, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, traumatic wounds, or ulcers of another site. It is also incorrect if the ulcer extends beyond skin breakdown or if the right-sided location is not documented.
Coding tip
Confirm laterality and ulcer depth in the note before assigning L97.311.