ICD-10 Code L98.A296 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm with bone involvement without evidence of necrosis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A296 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm with bone involvement without evidence of necrosis
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the forearm when the wound reaches bone but there is no documented necrosis. Use it for a persistent open lesion that is not caused by pressure injury.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a nonhealing forearm ulcer with visible or documented bone involvement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for depth, drainage, and whether necrotic tissue is absent.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record states a chronic ulcer of the forearm, specifies bone involvement, and clearly notes no evidence of necrosis. It is appropriate when the site is unspecified forearm and the ulcer is not pressure-related. Check documentation if laterality or cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use it for pressure ulcers, ulcers without bone involvement, or ulcers with documented necrosis. If the chart describes a different site or a different ulcer depth, code the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Verify the wound location, depth, and absence of necrosis before assigning L98.A296.