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 CodesL89.3

L89.3

Non-billable

Pressure ulcer of buttock

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L89.3 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of pressure ulcer of buttock.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L89.3 refers to a pressure ulcer located on the buttock, which is a localized injury to the skin and/or underlying tissue, typically over a bony prominence, resulting from pressure, or pressure in combination with shear and/or friction. Clinically, these ulcers can present as intact skin with non-blanchable redness, or as open wounds with varying degrees of tissue loss. The buttock area is particularly susceptible due to its anatomical structure and the pressure exerted during prolonged sitting or lying down. Disease progression can lead to deeper tissue damage, potentially involving muscle and bone, if not properly managed. Diagnostic considerations include assessing the ulcer stage, which ranges from Stage I (non-blanchable erythema) to Stage IV (full-thickness tissue loss). Accurate staging is crucial for treatment planning and monitoring healing. Healthcare providers must also consider comorbid conditions such as diabetes, vascular disease, and immobility that can complicate healing and increase the risk of infection.

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

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Pressure ulcers, including those classified under L89.3, significantly impact patient quality of life and healthcare costs. They are prevalent in populations with limited mobility, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Effective management and prevention strategies are critical for reducing incidence rates and improving patient outcomes. Quality measures often include monitoring pressure ulcer prevalence in healthcare settings, emphasizing the importance of preventive care and early intervention.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pressure ulcers, including those classified under L89.3, significantly impact patient quality of life and healthcare costs. They are prevalent in populations with limited mobility, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Effective management and prevention strategies are critical for reducing incidence rates and improving patient outcomes. Quality measures often include monitoring pressure ulcer prevalence in healthcare settings, emphasizing the importance of preventive care and early intervention.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the stage of the ulcer, the complexity of care, and the need for specialized wound care services. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for advanced treatments. Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support the claim and reduce the risk of audits.

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 L89.3?

L89.3 specifically covers pressure ulcers located on the buttock, which may include Stage I through Stage IV ulcers, as well as unstageable pressure ulcers. It is essential to document the stage and any associated complications such as infection or necrosis.

When should L89.3 be used instead of related codes?

L89.3 should be used when the pressure ulcer is specifically located on the buttock. If the ulcer is on a different anatomical site, such as the sacrum or hip, the corresponding codes (L89.1 or L89.2) should be utilized. Accurate anatomical documentation is critical for correct code selection.

What documentation supports L89.3?

Documentation for L89.3 should include a detailed description of the ulcer's location, stage, size, and any signs of infection or other complications. Clinical assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes are essential to support the diagnosis and ensure appropriate reimbursement.