ICD-10 Code L89.811 – Pressure ulcer of head, stage 1 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L89.811 – Pressure ulcer of head, stage 1
What it is
This code identifies a pressure ulcer on the head with intact skin and persistent nonblanchable redness. Use it when the injury is limited to stage 1 and the head is the documented site.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized redness over a bony prominence that does not blanch when pressed. The skin remains unbroken; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation if the stage is uncertain.
When to use this code
Use L89.811 when the provider documents a stage 1 pressure injury of the head, such as the scalp or occipital area, and the skin is still intact. Code it from the clinician’s staging, not from your own assumption. If the note says pressure ulcer but the stage or site is unclear, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for open wounds, abrasions, or ulcers at another body site. It is also wrong if the ulcer is documented as a different stage or if the head location is not specified.
Coding tip
Confirm both the stage and the exact head location in the record before assigning L89.811.