Pressure ulcer of left elbow, stage 3

This code signifies a full-thickness skin and tissue loss on the left elbow, where subcutaneous fat may be visible, but bone, tendon, or muscle are not directly exposed. It indicates a severe pressure injury characterized by deep crater formation, potentially with undermining or tunneling.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a Stage 3 pressure ulcer located on the patient's left elbow. This diagnosis is supported by clinical assessment noting significant tissue loss extending into the subcutaneous layer, often with slough or eschar present.

• Always confirm the specific anatomical location (left elbow) and the documented stage (Stage 3) from the physician's notes.
• Differentiate from Stage 2 ulcers, which involve partial-thickness loss, and Stage 4, which exposes bone, tendon, or muscle.
• Code any associated infections or complications of the pressure ulcer separately.