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ICD-10 Coding for Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2(L89.1, L89.22x)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Pressure Ulcer Stage 2Bed Sore Stage 2

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2

L89.1-L89.9Primary Range

Pressure ulcer codes by site and stage

This range includes all pressure ulcer stages and sites, with specific codes for stage 2 ulcers.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
L89.1Pressure ulcer of sacral region, stage 2Use when documenting a stage 2 ulcer in the sacral region with appropriate clinical findings.
  • Partial thickness loss of dermis
  • Shallow open ulcer with red/pink wound bed
  • No slough or eschar
L89.22xPressure ulcer of hip, stage 2Use for stage 2 ulcers on the hip with appropriate clinical documentation.
  • Partial thickness loss of dermis
  • Shallow open ulcer with red/pink wound bed
  • No slough or eschar

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for stage 2 decubitus ulcer

Essential facts and insights about Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2

The ICD-10 code for a stage 2 decubitus ulcer depends on the location, such as L89.1 for sacral region.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for decubitus ulcer stage 2

Pressure ulcer of sacral region, stage 2
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of partial thickness loss and red/pink wound bed

Applicable To

  • Stage 2 sacral pressure ulcer

Excludes

  • Diabetic ulcers (E08-E13 with .62x)
  • Non-pressure chronic ulcers (L97.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Partial thickness loss of dermis
  • Shallow open ulcer with red/pink wound bed
  • No slough or eschar

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing with unstageable ulcers
  • Incorrectly documenting as stage 3

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'stage 2' and includes clinical indicators.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Gangrene

I96
Use if gangrene is present; code first.

Infectious agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95-B97
Use if infection is documented.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Pressure ulcer of sacral region, stage 1

L89.0
Stage 1 is characterized by non-blanchable erythema of intact skin.

Pressure ulcer of hip, stage 1

L89.20
Stage 1 involves intact skin with non-blanchable redness.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2 to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L89.1.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Use checklists for wound documentation, Regular staff training on documentation standards

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to improper DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure no slough or eschar covers the wound bed before coding as stage 2.

Impact

Missing details about ulcer stage and characteristics.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular audits and feedback loops.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Documenting a stage 2 ulcer on the hip

Specialty: Wound Care

Required Elements

  • Location
  • Stage
  • Size
  • Wound bed description
  • Exudate type

Example Documentation

Stage 2 ulcer on left hip: 3x2 cm, red/pink wound bed, no slough.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Hip ulcer, stage 2
Good Documentation Example
Stage 2 pressure ulcer on left hip: 3x2 cm, shallow, red/pink base.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the ulcer's characteristics and location.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Decubitus Ulcer Stage 2? Ask your questions below.

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