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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL89.522

L89.522

Billable

Pressure ulcer of left ankle, stage 2

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L89.522 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pressure ulcer of left ankle, stage 2.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L89.522 refers to a stage 2 pressure ulcer located on the left ankle. 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. Stage 2 pressure ulcers are characterized by partial thickness loss of skin, presenting as a shallow open ulcer with a red or pink wound bed, without slough. The left ankle, being a bony prominence, is particularly susceptible to pressure ulcers, especially in individuals with limited mobility or chronic conditions. Diagnosis involves a thorough clinical examination, including assessment of the ulcer's stage, size, and surrounding skin condition. Risk factors include immobility, malnutrition, and moisture exposure. Proper staging is crucial for treatment planning and monitoring progression. Treatment typically involves relieving pressure, maintaining a moist wound environment, and addressing any underlying health issues. Regular reassessment is necessary to ensure healing and prevent complications.

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 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

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

Pressure ulcers, including stage 2 ulcers, significantly impact patient quality of life and healthcare costs. They are associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare utilization. Understanding the epidemiology of pressure ulcers can inform preventive strategies and quality measures aimed at reducing their incidence, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with limited mobility.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pressure ulcers, including stage 2 ulcers, significantly impact patient quality of life and healthcare costs. They are associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare utilization. Understanding the epidemiology of pressure ulcers can inform preventive strategies and quality measures aimed at reducing their incidence, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with limited mobility.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the need for detailed notes on the ulcer's stage, size, and any interventions performed. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for treatment. 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 L89.522?

L89.522 specifically covers stage 2 pressure ulcers located on the left ankle. This includes ulcers that exhibit partial thickness skin loss and are characterized by a shallow open wound without necrotic tissue.

When should L89.522 be used instead of related codes?

L89.522 should be used when documenting a stage 2 pressure ulcer specifically on the left ankle. It is important to differentiate from other stages (e.g., stage 1 or stage 3) and other locations (e.g., right ankle) to ensure accurate coding and treatment.

What documentation supports L89.522?

Documentation should include a detailed description of the ulcer's characteristics, staging, location, and any relevant patient history, such as mobility issues or comorbidities that may contribute to ulcer development.