ICD-10 Code L89.130 – Pressure ulcer of right lower back, unstageable (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.130 – Pressure ulcer of right lower back, unstageable
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer on the right lower back whose depth cannot be determined because the wound bed is covered by slough or eschar. Use it when the ulcer is clearly documented as unstageable.
Clinical signs
The lesion is a pressure-related skin injury over the right lower back with full-thickness tissue loss obscured by nonviable tissue. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L89.130 when the provider documents a pressure ulcer on the right lower back and states that staging is not possible because the base is covered. This is appropriate when the location is specific and the ulcer is not described as another stage. If later assessment reveals a stage, code the documented stage instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for a non-pressure wound, skin tear, or ulcer with a documented stage. Do not assign it if the site is not the right lower back or if documentation is unclear; check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both the exact site and the word “unstageable” before coding, and query the provider if the wound description does not support pressure etiology.