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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL89.324

L89.324

Billable

Pressure ulcer of left buttock, stage 4

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L89.324 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pressure ulcer of left buttock, stage 4.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L89.324 refers to a stage 4 pressure ulcer located on the left buttock. Clinically, a stage 4 pressure ulcer is characterized by full-thickness tissue loss, which may involve muscle, bone, or supporting structures such as fascia. The ulcer may present with necrotic tissue and eschar, and there may be tunneling or undermining present. The left buttock is a common site for pressure ulcers due to prolonged pressure, particularly in patients with limited mobility or those who are bedridden. The progression of a pressure ulcer can be influenced by factors such as moisture, nutrition, and overall health status. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination and assessment of the ulcer's characteristics, including size, depth, and the presence of infection. Diagnostic considerations also include evaluating the patient's risk factors, such as immobility, incontinence, and comorbid conditions like diabetes or vascular disease. Effective management requires a multidisciplinary approach, including wound care, nutritional support, and pressure relief strategies.

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

Wound Care

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

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

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

Stage 4 pressure ulcers have significant clinical implications, often leading to increased morbidity and healthcare costs. They can result in prolonged hospital stays, increased risk of infections, and a decline in overall health status. The prevalence of pressure ulcers in vulnerable populations highlights the importance of preventive measures and effective management strategies. Monitoring quality measures related to pressure ulcer care is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Stage 4 pressure ulcers have significant clinical implications, often leading to increased morbidity and healthcare costs. They can result in prolonged hospital stays, increased risk of infections, and a decline in overall health status. The prevalence of pressure ulcers in vulnerable populations highlights the importance of preventive measures and effective management strategies. Monitoring quality measures related to pressure ulcer care is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement may be affected by the completeness of the clinical notes, including the treatment plan and progress. Common denials can occur if the documentation does not adequately reflect the severity of the ulcer or if there are inconsistencies in the coding. Best practices include using specific codes for the ulcer stage and ensuring that all relevant clinical information is included in the patient's medical record to support the billing process.

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 L89.324?

L89.324 specifically covers stage 4 pressure ulcers on the left buttock, which are defined by full-thickness skin loss and may involve underlying tissues. It is critical to differentiate this from stage 1, 2, or 3 ulcers, which have different characteristics and treatment protocols.

When should L89.324 be used instead of related codes?

L89.324 should be used when documenting a stage 4 pressure ulcer on the left buttock. It is important to use this specific code when the ulcer has progressed to this stage, as it requires more intensive management and has different implications for patient care compared to lower-stage ulcers.

What documentation supports L89.324?

Documentation for L89.324 should include a detailed description of the ulcer's characteristics, including size, depth, and any necrotic tissue. Additionally, the patient's risk factors, treatment plans, and progress notes should be included to support the diagnosis and justify the complexity of care.