ICD-10 Code L89.023 – Pressure ulcer of left elbow, stage 3 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.023 – Pressure ulcer of left elbow, stage 3
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer on the left elbow with full-thickness skin loss. Stage 3 means the wound extends into the subcutaneous tissue, but bone, tendon, and muscle are not exposed.
Clinical signs
You may see a deep open ulcer, slough, or undermining at the left elbow. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for stage confirmation and whether surrounding tissue shows drainage or necrosis.
When to use this code
Use L89.023 when the provider documents a stage 3 pressure injury specifically on the left elbow. The record should support the site and stage, not just a general pressure sore diagnosis. If staging is unclear or later revised, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for stage 2, stage 4, unstageable, or deep tissue pressure injuries. Also avoid it if the ulcer is on a different body site or if the documentation does not confirm stage 3.
Coding tip
Match the laterality and stage exactly to the provider’s documentation before assigning L89.023.