Athscl native art of left leg w ulcer of heel and midfoot

This code signifies a specific type of peripheral artery disease (PAD) affecting the native arteries of the left lower extremity, characterized by atherosclerotic plaque formation. A critical component of this diagnosis is the presence of an open sore or lesion located on the heel or midfoot region, indicating advanced tissue damage due to compromised blood flow.

Utilize this code when documentation clearly states atherosclerosis of the left leg's native arteries and explicitly identifies an ulcer on the heel or midfoot. This typically applies to patients presenting with chronic lower extremity pain, non-healing wounds, or gangrene secondary to PAD. Supporting documentation should include vascular studies confirming arterial disease and wound care notes detailing the ulcer's location.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "native arteries" to differentiate from bypass grafts.
• Verify the ulcer's exact location (heel or midfoot) on the left leg; laterality and specific site are crucial.
• Do not use this code if the ulcer is due to venous insufficiency, pressure, or diabetes without documented atherosclerosis as the primary cause.