ICD-10 Code L89.44 – Pressure ulcer of contiguous site of back, buttock and hip, stage 4 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.44 – Pressure ulcer of contiguous site of back, buttock and hip, stage 4
What it is
This code identifies a stage 4 pressure ulcer affecting the combined back, buttock, and hip region. Stage 4 means full-thickness tissue loss with exposed deeper structures; check documentation for exact depth and involved site.
Clinical signs
Expect an open ulcer with full-thickness skin and tissue loss, often with exposed or palpable bone, tendon, or muscle. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for staging details and whether necrosis or undermining is present.
When to use this code
Use L89.44 when the provider documents a stage 4 pressure injury spanning the contiguous back, buttock, and hip area. Code it when the record clearly identifies the site and stage. If the location or stage is unclear, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for stage 1, 2, or 3 pressure ulcers, or for unstageable lesions. It is also incorrect when the ulcer is limited to a single site rather than the contiguous back, buttock, and hip region.
Coding tip
Match the documented stage and anatomic site exactly; if either is missing, query the provider.