ICD-10 Code L89.1 – Pressure ulcer of back (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.1 – Pressure ulcer of back
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer located on the back. Use it when documentation specifies a pressure injury or decubitus ulcer affecting the back area.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized skin breakdown, redness, or an open wound over a bony area of the back. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L89.1 when the provider documents a pressure ulcer on the back and does not specify a more exact site. If the record includes stage, laterality, or deeper location detail, code to the highest level of specificity available.
Check whether the ulcer is present on admission and whether multiple pressure injuries are documented. Do not assume the back site if the note only describes an ulcer elsewhere.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for non-pressure skin ulcers, traumatic wounds, or surgical wounds on the back. Check documentation if the lesion is described without pressure-related wording.
Coding tip
Verify both the pressure-ulcer diagnosis and the anatomic site in the note before assigning L89.1.