ICD-10 Code L97.821 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of other part of left lower leg limited to breakdown of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.821 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of other part of left lower leg limited to breakdown of skin
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on another part of the left lower leg that extends only to the skin surface breakdown layer. It does not describe a pressure injury or a deeper wound.
Clinical signs
Typical documentation may note an open sore on the left lower leg with superficial skin loss and a chronic course. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic ulcer on the left lower leg, specifies a non-pressure cause, and states that the depth is limited to breakdown of skin. It is appropriate when the site is not the ankle, heel, or foot. If the record does not clearly identify location or depth, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, ulcers of the ankle, heel, or foot, or ulcers extending beyond skin breakdown. If the left lower leg site or ulcer depth is unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both laterality and ulcer depth in the note before assigning L97.821.