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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL89.113

L89.113

Billable

Pressure ulcer of right upper back, stage 3

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L89.113 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pressure ulcer of right upper back, stage 3.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L89.113 refers to a stage 3 pressure ulcer located on the right upper back. Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, occur when sustained pressure on the skin reduces blood flow to the area, leading to tissue damage. The right upper back is anatomically significant as it encompasses the skin and subcutaneous tissue overlying the scapula and upper thoracic spine. Clinically, a stage 3 pressure ulcer is characterized by full-thickness skin loss, which may extend into the subcutaneous tissue but not through underlying fascia. The ulcer may present with necrotic tissue, slough, or eschar, and may have a depth that varies based on the individual’s body habitus. Disease progression can occur if the ulcer is not properly managed, potentially leading to infection, further tissue loss, and complications such as osteomyelitis. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough assessment of the ulcer's size, depth, and surrounding skin condition, as well as evaluating the patient's overall health status and risk factors for pressure ulcer development, such as immobility, malnutrition, and comorbidities.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires accurate assessment of ulcer stage and depth.
  • Treatment complexity: Involves multidisciplinary care including wound management and potential surgical intervention.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes on ulcer assessment and management are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to reflect the ulcer's location and stage.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of ulcer stage or location.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records of ulcer assessment and treatment plans.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not support the severity and management of the ulcer.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary medical specialty: 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

Secondary specialty: 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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of L89.113 is profound, as pressure ulcers can lead to severe complications, increased healthcare costs, and prolonged hospital stays. They are prevalent in populations with limited mobility, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Addressing pressure ulcers is critical for improving patient outcomes, reducing healthcare utilization, and meeting quality measures in healthcare settings. Epidemiologically, the incidence of pressure ulcers remains a concern, highlighting the need for effective prevention and management strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of L89.113 is profound, as pressure ulcers can lead to severe complications, increased healthcare costs, and prolonged hospital stays. They are prevalent in populations with limited mobility, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Addressing pressure ulcers is critical for improving patient outcomes, reducing healthcare utilization, and meeting quality measures in healthcare settings. Epidemiologically, the incidence of pressure ulcers remains a concern, highlighting the need for effective prevention and management strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the severity of the ulcer, the complexity of care provided, and adherence to clinical guidelines. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for treatments such as debridement or specialized wound care. Best practices include maintaining thorough records of assessments, treatment plans, and patient progress to ensure accurate billing and reduce 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 L89.113?

L89.113 specifically covers stage 3 pressure ulcers located on the right upper back, characterized by full-thickness skin loss. It does not cover ulcers at other stages or locations.

When should L89.113 be used instead of related codes?

L89.113 should be used when documenting a stage 3 pressure ulcer on the right upper back, differentiating it from stage 1 or 2 ulcers, or ulcers located on other body parts.

What documentation supports L89.113?

Documentation should include a detailed assessment of the ulcer's size, depth, and characteristics, as well as the patient's risk factors and treatment plan. Photographic evidence may also be beneficial.