ICD-10 Code L89.121 – Pressure ulcer of left upper back, stage 1 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.121 – Pressure ulcer of left upper back, stage 1
What it is
Use this code for a pressure ulcer on the left upper back that is limited to stage 1 skin damage. Stage 1 means intact skin with nonblanchable redness over a pressure point.
Clinical signs
Look for localized redness on the left upper back that does not blanch with pressure. The skin remains intact; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation for staging details.
When to use this code
Assign this code when the provider documents a stage 1 pressure injury specifically on the left upper back. Use it when the location and stage are both confirmed in the record. If later documentation shows deeper tissue loss, stage 1 is no longer appropriate.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers at another site, or for wounds without documented stage 1 findings. Check documentation if the record describes skin breakdown, blistering, or an unstageable ulcer.
Coding tip
Verify both laterality and anatomical site exactly as documented before assigning L89.121.