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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL89.502

L89.502

Billable

Pressure ulcer of unspecified ankle, stage 2

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L89.502 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pressure ulcer of unspecified ankle, stage 2.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L89.502 refers to a stage 2 pressure ulcer located at the unspecified ankle. Clinically, a stage 2 pressure ulcer is characterized by partial-thickness skin loss involving the epidermis and/or dermis. The ulcer may present as an abrasion, blister, or shallow crater, and is typically painful. The anatomical area involved, in this case, is the ankle, which is a common site for pressure ulcers due to prolonged pressure, friction, or shear forces, especially in patients with limited mobility or those who are bedridden. Disease progression can lead to deeper tissue damage if not properly managed, potentially advancing to stage 3 or 4 ulcers. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough assessment of the ulcer's characteristics, patient history, and risk factors such as immobility, malnutrition, and comorbid conditions like diabetes or vascular disease. Regular monitoring and appropriate interventions are critical 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 include misclassification of ulcer stage.
  • Documentation gaps may arise from insufficient detail in patient assessments.
  • Billing challenges can occur if the ulcer is not well-documented or if the treatment plan is unclear.

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

The clinical significance of accurately coding L89.502 lies in its implications for patient care and resource allocation. Pressure ulcers are a major concern in healthcare, affecting patient quality of life and increasing healthcare costs. Proper coding and management can improve population health outcomes by facilitating targeted interventions and reducing the incidence of complications associated with pressure ulcers. Monitoring trends in pressure ulcer prevalence can inform quality measures and healthcare utilization patterns.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of accurately coding L89.502 lies in its implications for patient care and resource allocation. Pressure ulcers are a major concern in healthcare, affecting patient quality of life and increasing healthcare costs. Proper coding and management can improve population health outcomes by facilitating targeted interventions and reducing the incidence of complications associated with pressure ulcers. Monitoring trends in pressure ulcer prevalence can inform quality measures and healthcare utilization patterns.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the coding aligns with the services provided, particularly if debridement or specialized wound care is involved. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for the treatment provided. Best practices include maintaining thorough records of assessments, treatment progress, and patient education to support claims.

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 L89.502?

L89.502 specifically covers stage 2 pressure ulcers at the ankle, which may arise from prolonged pressure, friction, or shear. It is important to differentiate this from other skin lesions or ulcers that may not be pressure-related.

When should L89.502 be used instead of related codes?

L89.502 should be used when documenting a stage 2 pressure ulcer at the ankle. It is essential to differentiate it from stage 1 or stage 3 ulcers, as well as from other types of ulcers, to ensure accurate coding and appropriate treatment.

What documentation supports L89.502?

Documentation should include a detailed description of the ulcer's size, depth, and characteristics, as well as the patient's risk factors, treatment plan, and any interventions performed. Regular assessments and updates on the ulcer's status are also crucial.