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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL89.46

L89.46

Billable

Pressure-induced deep tissue damage of contiguous site of back, buttock and hip

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L89.46 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pressure-induced deep tissue damage of contiguous site of back, buttock and hip.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Pressure-induced deep tissue damage of contiguous site of back, buttock and hip refers to localized injury to the skin and underlying tissue resulting from prolonged pressure, often occurring in patients with limited mobility. Clinically, this condition presents as a persistent non-blanchable redness or discoloration of the skin, which may progress to blistering, ulceration, or even necrosis if not addressed promptly. The anatomy involved primarily includes the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and underlying muscle layers, particularly over bony prominences such as the sacrum, coccyx, and hips. Disease progression can vary; initially, it may appear as a stage 1 pressure ulcer and can advance to stage 4 if not managed effectively. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and assessment of risk factors such as immobility, malnutrition, and moisture exposure. Early identification and intervention are crucial to prevent complications and promote healing.

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Pressure-induced deep tissue damage significantly impacts patient quality of life, leading to increased morbidity and healthcare costs. It is a common concern in populations such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, contributing to higher rates of hospitalization and prolonged recovery times. Effective management and prevention strategies are essential for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pressure-induced deep tissue damage significantly impacts patient quality of life, leading to increased morbidity and healthcare costs. It is a common concern in populations such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, contributing to higher rates of hospitalization and prolonged recovery times. Effective management and prevention strategies are essential for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the severity of the pressure injury and the complexity of care required. 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 compliance with payer requirements.

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 L89.46?

L89.46 covers pressure-induced deep tissue damage specifically affecting the back, buttock, and hip areas. This includes conditions such as stage 1 to stage 4 pressure ulcers that develop due to sustained pressure, particularly in patients with limited mobility or those who are bedridden.

When should L89.46 be used instead of related codes?

L89.46 should be used when documenting deep tissue damage that affects contiguous sites of the back, buttock, and hip. It is important to differentiate this from other codes that may pertain to isolated areas or different stages of pressure ulcers.

What documentation supports L89.46?

Documentation should include a detailed assessment of the affected areas, including the stage of the pressure injury, patient mobility status, nutritional assessment, and any interventions taken. Photographic evidence and regular monitoring notes can also support the diagnosis.