ICD-10 Coding for Left Leg Ulcer(I87.312, L97.222)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Leg Ulcer. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Leg Ulcer
I83.0-I83.2Primary Range
Varicose veins of lower extremities with ulcer
This range includes codes for varicose veins with ulcers, specifying laterality and severity.
Chronic venous hypertension (idiopathic) with ulcer
This range is used for chronic venous hypertension with ulcer, specifying laterality.
Non-pressure chronic ulcer of lower limb, not elsewhere classified
This range specifies the severity and location of non-pressure ulcers on the lower limb.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I87.312 | Chronic venous hypertension (idiopathic) with ulcer of left lower extremity | Use when chronic venous hypertension is present with an ulcer on the left lower extremity. |
|
| L97.222 | Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left calf with fat layer exposed | Use when the ulcer on the left calf exposes the fat layer. |
|
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 left leg ulcer
Essential facts and insights about Left Leg Ulcer
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left leg ulcer
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Venous reflux confirmed by Doppler ultrasound
documentation Criteria
- Detailed description of ulcer characteristics and ABPI results
Applicable To
- Venous stasis ulcer of left leg
Excludes
- Varicose veins with ulcer (I83.2-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Venous reflux confirmed by Doppler ultrasound
- Presence of pitting edema and hemosiderin staining
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation
- Missing documentation of ulcer severity
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation includes ulcer location, size, and vascular assessment.
L97.222 - Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left calf with fat layer exposed
Use when the ulcer on the left calf exposes the fat layer.
Applicable To
- Ulcer with fat layer exposed
Excludes
- Ulcer with muscle involvement (L97.223)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Ulcer dimensions and depth documented
- Presence of exposed fat layer
Coding Notes
Ensure ulcer severity is accurately documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Long-term (current) use of anticoagulants
Z79.4Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Leg Ulcer to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I87.312.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates to ensure all details are captured, Regular training on documentation standards
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify laterality and severity using the appropriate codes.
Impact
Failure to document laterality can lead to incorrect coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory fields in EHR for laterality.
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 Left Leg Ulcer, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Leg Ulcer
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Leg Ulcer. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency with Left Leg Ulcer
Specialty: Vascular SurgeryRequired Elements
- Ulcer location and size
- Tissue type and depth
- ABPI results
- Compression therapy details
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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