ICD-10 Code L97.904 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of unspecified lower leg with necrosis of bone (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.904 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of unspecified lower leg with necrosis of bone
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on an unspecified lower leg when bone necrosis is documented. Use it when the record confirms a lower-leg ulcer not caused by pressure and specifies necrosis of bone.
Clinical signs
Findings usually include a persistent lower-leg ulcer with exposed or necrotic bone noted in the chart. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, exact location, and severity details.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the lower leg and states that bone is necrotic. It is appropriate when the part of the lower leg is not specified and no pressure injury is described. Check documentation if laterality or ulcer site is clearer elsewhere in the record.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers on other body sites. Do not assign it if necrosis of bone is not documented or if the chart identifies a more specific lower-leg location.
Coding tip
Confirm the ulcer is non-pressure and chronic, then look for explicit documentation of bone necrosis before assigning L97.904.