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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL89.111

L89.111

Billable

Pressure ulcer of right upper back, stage 1

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 L89.111 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pressure ulcer of right upper back, stage 1.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L89.111 refers to a stage 1 pressure ulcer located on the right upper back. Clinically, a stage 1 pressure ulcer is characterized by intact skin with non-blanchable redness of a localized area, typically over a bony prominence. The affected area may feel warmer or cooler compared to adjacent skin, and may present with changes in sensation, texture, or firmness. The anatomy involved includes the epidermis and dermis, where the pressure disrupts blood flow, leading to ischemia and potential tissue damage if not addressed promptly. Disease progression can lead to more severe stages of pressure ulcers if the underlying causes, such as immobility, inadequate nutrition, or moisture, are not managed. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough skin assessment, patient history, and risk factor evaluation using tools like the Braden Scale to determine the risk of pressure ulcer development. Early identification and intervention are crucial to prevent further deterioration.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors
  • Documentation gaps
  • Billing challenges

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Wound care management

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of accurately coding L89.111 lies in its role in tracking pressure ulcer prevalence and management outcomes. Pressure ulcers are a major concern in healthcare, impacting patient quality of life and increasing healthcare costs. Accurate coding contributes to population health data, quality measures, and resource allocation, ultimately influencing healthcare utilization patterns and improving patient care strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of accurately coding L89.111 lies in its role in tracking pressure ulcer prevalence and management outcomes. Pressure ulcers are a major concern in healthcare, impacting patient quality of life and increasing healthcare costs. Accurate coding contributes to population health data, quality measures, and resource allocation, ultimately influencing healthcare utilization patterns and improving patient care strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the documentation reflects the ulcer's stage and location accurately. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for treatment. Best practices include maintaining thorough records of assessments, interventions, and patient progress to support claims and minimize audit risks.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for L00-L99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for L00-L99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by L89.111?

L89.111 specifically covers stage 1 pressure ulcers on the right upper back. It is important to note that this code is used when the ulcer is intact with non-blanchable erythema and does not extend into deeper layers of skin.

When should L89.111 be used instead of related codes?

L89.111 should be used when documenting a stage 1 pressure ulcer specifically located on the right upper back. It is essential to differentiate it from other stages (L89.112 for stage 2, etc.) and other locations to ensure accurate coding.

What documentation supports L89.111?

Documentation should include a detailed description of the ulcer's characteristics, the location, stage, and any relevant patient history or risk factors. Photographic evidence and assessments using standardized tools can also support the diagnosis.