ICD-10 Code L98.A225 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left forearm with muscle involvement without evidence of necrosis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A225 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left forearm with muscle involvement without evidence of necrosis
What it is
This code describes a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the left forearm that extends into muscle tissue and shows no necrosis. It identifies a deeper skin loss that is not caused by pressure injury.
Clinical signs
You may see an open wound with exposed or involved muscle, persistent drainage, and delayed healing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, depth, and absence of necrosis.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly documents a chronic ulcer of the left forearm with muscle involvement and no necrotic tissue. The provider should specify that it is non-pressure and that the left side is affected.
Choose it for wound assessments, follow-up visits, or problem lists when the ulcer depth is documented at the muscle level. Check documentation if the site, depth, or tissue status is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute traumatic wounds, or ulcers with documented necrosis. If the forearm side or depth is not confirmed, check documentation before coding.
Coding tip
Verify three elements in the note: non-pressure, left forearm location, and muscle involvement without necrosis.