ICD-10 Code L97.90 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of unspecified lower leg (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.90 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of unspecified lower leg
What it is
This code identifies a chronic ulcer on the lower leg that is not caused by pressure and whose exact side and location are not specified. Use it when documentation confirms a non-pressure ulcer of the lower leg but gives no more detail.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical charted findings may include an open skin lesion, delayed healing, drainage, or surrounding skin changes, but the record must support a chronic non-pressure ulcer.
When to use this code
Use L97.90 when the provider documents a chronic ulcer of the lower leg and does not specify whether it is right or left, or the precise lower-leg site. It also fits when laterality or exact location is unavailable in the note. If the ulcer is described with more detail, choose the more specific code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers on another body site. Check documentation if the record identifies the side, exact lower-leg location, or a different ulcer type.
Coding tip
Always look for laterality and exact anatomic location first; if missing, L97.90 is the nonspecific choice.