ICD-10 Code L97.902 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of unspecified lower leg with fat layer exposed (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.902 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of unspecified lower leg with fat layer exposed
What it is
This code identifies a chronic open ulcer on an unspecified part of the lower leg, not caused by pressure, with the fat layer exposed. Use it when the documentation confirms deeper tissue involvement but does not specify the exact lower-leg site.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent lower-leg skin break with visible subcutaneous fat, drainage, and delayed healing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, exact location, and ulcer depth.
When to use this code
Use L97.902 when the record states a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the lower leg and specifies exposed fat layer, but leaves the exact part of the lower leg unspecified. It fits outpatient, inpatient, and wound-care documentation when no more specific ulcer code is supported. If the note identifies a more precise site or a different depth, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers limited to skin breakdown without fat layer exposure. Check documentation if the ulcer site is specified more precisely or if another ulcer category applies.
Coding tip
Confirm both chronicity and depth; if the note does not clearly state exposed fat, do not assign this code.