ICD-10 Code L98.424 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of back with necrosis of bone (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.424 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of back with necrosis of bone
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the back with bone necrosis. Use it when documentation shows a persistent skin breakdown over the back that extends to dead or damaged bone.
Clinical signs
You may see an open ulcer on the back with exposed, devitalized, or necrotic bone. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for depth, chronicity, and whether infection or drainage is also noted.
When to use this code
Use L98.424 when the provider documents a chronic ulcer on the back and specifically states necrosis of bone. It fits non-pressure ulcers, not pressure injuries, even if the area is over a bony prominence. Check documentation if the site is unclear or bone involvement is not confirmed.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers without bone necrosis. If the record does not clearly show a non-pressure chronic ulcer of the back, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the ulcer stage and depth only as documented, and confirm that “back” is the recorded site before assigning L98.424.