ICD-10 Code L97.903 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of unspecified lower leg with necrosis of muscle (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.903 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of unspecified lower leg with necrosis of muscle
What it is
This code identifies a chronic ulcer on an unspecified lower leg that is not caused by pressure and has muscle necrosis. Use it when the record does not specify the exact lower-leg location.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open, non-healing lower-leg wound with tissue breakdown extending to muscle. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the ulcer’s depth, chronicity, and any described necrosis.
When to use this code
Use L97.903 when the provider documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the lower leg, but the exact side or subsite is not stated. It also fits when muscle necrosis is clearly documented and no more specific code is supported.
Check documentation if the chart mentions pressure injury, acute wound, or a more specific lower-leg location. You should code the most specific ulcer description available, including laterality and depth when recorded.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, or ulcers of other anatomic sites. Do not use it when the record supports a more specific lower-leg code.
Coding tip
Confirm both the chronic non-pressure nature of the ulcer and the documented muscle necrosis before assigning L97.903.