ICD-10 Code L98.465 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of face with muscle involvement without evidence of necrosis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.465 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of face with muscle involvement without evidence of necrosis
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the face that extends into muscle but shows no necrosis. Use it when the documentation specifically states facial location and muscle involvement.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include a persistent open facial wound with visible depth to muscle, without dead tissue described in the wound bed.
When to use this code
Use L98.465 when the provider documents a chronic facial ulcer and clearly states that muscle is involved. It is appropriate for wound assessments, follow-up visits, or problem lists when the ulcer is still active. Check documentation if the depth or tissue involvement is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or facial lesions without confirmed muscle involvement. If necrosis is documented, or the site is not the face, choose a different code.
Coding tip
Verify both the anatomic site and ulcer depth in the note before assigning L98.465.