ICD-10 Code L97.502 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of other part of unspecified foot with fat layer exposed (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.502 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of other part of unspecified foot with fat layer exposed
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on another specified part of an unspecified foot, with exposed subcutaneous fat. Use it when the record clearly documents a foot ulcer that is not caused by pressure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open wound on the foot that persists over time and extends through the skin to visible fat. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for location, laterality, and depth.
When to use this code
Use L97.502 when the provider documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the foot and specifies exposed fat layer, but does not identify the exact foot side. It may appear in diabetic, vascular, or other chronic wound records, but the ulcer type and site must be documented.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers without fat layer exposure. Check documentation if the record instead describes a different foot location or a more specific laterality code.
Coding tip
Verify the ulcer is non-pressure and chronic, then confirm “fat layer exposed” before assigning this code.