ICD-10 Code L97.429 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left heel and midfoot with unspecified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.429 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left heel and midfoot with unspecified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer located on the left heel or midfoot, with severity not further specified. It is used when the record confirms site and chronicity but does not state depth or level of tissue involvement.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open wound on the left heel or midfoot that persists over time and is not caused by pressure injury. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for size, drainage, tissue loss, or infection.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic ulcer on the left heel or midfoot and does not assign a more specific severity. It fits outpatient, inpatient, or wound-care notes that clearly identify the site and chronic nature.
Choose this code only when the chart does not specify skin breakdown depth or other severity detail. If later documentation clarifies the ulcer stage or extent, code to the more specific option instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers on another foot location. Check documentation if the lesion is described as diabetic, arterial, venous, or otherwise more specifically classified.
Coding tip
Confirm laterality, anatomic site, and whether the ulcer is truly non-pressure before assigning L97.429.