ICD-10 Code L98.444 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of chest with necrosis of bone (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.444 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of chest with necrosis of bone
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the chest with documented bone necrosis. Use it when the wound is not caused by pressure and the record confirms bone involvement.
Clinical signs
Typical documentation includes a persistent open chest wound with exposed or necrotic bone, tissue breakdown, and poor healing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L98.444 when the provider documents a chronic ulcer of the chest and specifically notes necrosis of bone. The ulcer must be non-pressure in origin, not a pressure injury or surgical wound unless the record clearly supports this diagnosis. If the site or depth is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers without bone necrosis. Do not assign it when the chart only describes skin breakdown or an unspecified chest wound.
Coding tip
Confirm both the chest location and the bone necrosis detail before coding, because missing specificity can change the code selection.