ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL89.130

L89.130

Billable

Pressure ulcer of right lower back, unstageable

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L89.130 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pressure ulcer of right lower back, unstageable.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L89.130 refers to an unstageable pressure ulcer located on the right lower back. Pressure ulcers, also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, occur when sustained pressure impairs blood flow to the skin and underlying tissues, leading to tissue necrosis. The right lower back is a common site for these ulcers, particularly in individuals with limited mobility or those who are bedridden. The unstageable designation indicates that the ulcer's depth cannot be determined due to the presence of necrotic tissue or eschar, which obscures the wound bed. Clinically, these ulcers may present with varying degrees of pain, redness, and swelling, and can progress rapidly if not addressed. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough physical examination and assessment of risk factors, including immobility, nutritional status, and comorbid conditions such as diabetes or vascular disease. Early identification and intervention are crucial to prevent complications such as infection or systemic illness. Treatment often includes wound care management, pressure relief strategies, and addressing underlying health issues.

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 on ulcer assessment.
  • Billing challenges can occur if the unstageable nature is not clearly documented.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Wound care specialists

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

Dermatologists

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 those classified under L89.130, significantly impact patient health and healthcare costs. They are associated with increased morbidity, longer hospital stays, and higher healthcare utilization. Addressing these conditions is critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Quality measures often include the prevention and management of pressure ulcers, highlighting their importance in population health initiatives.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pressure ulcers, including those classified under L89.130, significantly impact patient health and healthcare costs. They are associated with increased morbidity, longer hospital stays, and higher healthcare utilization. Addressing these conditions is critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Quality measures often include the prevention and management of pressure ulcers, highlighting their importance in population health initiatives.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the need for comprehensive wound care management and potential referrals to specialists. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation of the ulcer's characteristics or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for treatment. Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is included in the medical record to support the claim and avoid billing challenges.

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 L89.130?

L89.130 specifically covers unstageable pressure ulcers located on the right lower back. It is important to note that the ulcer must be assessed to confirm that it is unstageable due to necrotic tissue or eschar, rather than other factors.

When should L89.130 be used instead of related codes?

L89.130 should be used when the pressure ulcer on the right lower back cannot be staged due to obscured depth. If the ulcer can be staged, appropriate codes such as L89.131 or L89.132 should be selected instead.

What documentation supports L89.130?

Documentation must include a detailed assessment of the ulcer, including its location, characteristics, and any factors contributing to its unstageable status. Photographic evidence and regular reassessments can also support the diagnosis.