ICD-10 Code L98.443 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of chest with necrosis of muscle (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.443 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of chest with necrosis of muscle
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the chest that extends into muscle tissue. Use it when the documentation shows tissue loss from a non-pressure cause with muscle necrosis.
Clinical signs
Expect an open chest wound with chronic breakdown, visible depth, and evidence of muscle involvement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for ulcer chronicity, location, and whether necrosis is specifically noted.
When to use this code
Use L98.443 when the provider documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the chest and states that necrosis of muscle is present. It is appropriate when the site is the chest and the ulcer depth reaches muscle. If the record only says “ulcer” or does not confirm necrosis, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers at other body sites. Also avoid it when muscle necrosis is not documented.
Coding tip
Confirm both the chest location and the depth to muscle before assigning this code.