ICD-10 Code L98.A294 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm with necrosis of bone (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A294 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm with necrosis of bone
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the forearm when documentation does not specify right or left side and the wound extends to bone necrosis. Use it for a persistent ulcer not caused by pressure injury.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open wound on the forearm with chronic tissue breakdown and evidence that bone is necrotic or exposed to necrosis. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states a non-pressure chronic ulcer of the forearm and specifies necrosis of bone, but laterality is not documented. It may appear in wound care, surgical, or specialty notes describing a longstanding ulcer with bone involvement. Verify that the condition is not a pressure ulcer or another skin disorder.
Do not use for
Do not use it for pressure ulcers, acute traumatic wounds, or ulcers of a different anatomic site. If the note does not confirm bone necrosis, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both chronic ulcer status and bone necrosis in the provider record before assigning this code.