ICD-10 Coding for Right Leg Ulcer(I87.311, L97.212)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Right Leg Ulcer. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Right Leg Ulcer
I87.3-I87.9Primary Range
Other disorders of veins
Includes chronic venous hypertension with ulcer of the right leg.
Non-pressure chronic ulcer of lower limb, not elsewhere classified
Used to specify the severity and location of the ulcer.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I87.311 | Chronic venous hypertension (idiopathic) with ulcer of right lower extremity | Use when chronic venous hypertension is the underlying cause of the ulcer. |
|
| L97.212 | Non-pressure chronic ulcer of right calf with fat layer exposed | Use when the ulcer on the right 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 right leg ulcer
Essential facts and insights about Right Leg Ulcer
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for right leg ulcer
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of chronic venous hypertension symptoms
documentation Criteria
- Detailed description of ulcer location and severity
Applicable To
- Chronic venous insufficiency with ulcer
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Venous duplex showing reflux >0.5 sec
- Clinical signs such as edema and hemosiderin staining
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification with arterial or pressure ulcers
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies laterality, location, and depth.
L97.212 - Non-pressure chronic ulcer of right calf with fat layer exposed
Use when the ulcer on the right calf exposes the fat layer.
Applicable To
- Ulcer with exposed subcutaneous tissue
Excludes
- Pressure ulcers (L89.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Wound measurement and depth documentation
Coding Notes
Ensure depth is accurately documented to avoid miscoding.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Non-pressure chronic ulcer of calf
L97.2-Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Varicose veins of lower extremities with ulcer
I83.01-Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities with ulceration
I70.23-Non-pressure chronic ulcer of right calf with necrosis of muscle
L97.213Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Leg Ulcer to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I87.311.
Impact
Clinical: Impacts treatment planning and outcomes., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific anatomical terms, Document ulcer depth and surrounding skin condition
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the specific laterality of the ulcer.
Impact
Inaccurate documentation of ulcer depth can lead to coding errors.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on accurate wound assessment and documentation.
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 Right Leg Ulcer, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Right Leg Ulcer
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Right Leg Ulcer. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic venous ulcer management
Specialty: Wound CareRequired Elements
- Location and size of ulcer
- Depth and tissue involvement
- Surrounding skin condition
- Vascular assessment
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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