Pressure ulcer of unspecified part of back, stage 3

This code signifies a full-thickness skin and tissue loss involving damage to or necrosis of subcutaneous tissue, which may extend down to, but not through, underlying fascia. The ulcer is located on an unspecified part of the patient's back. This stage presents clinically as a deep crater with or without undermining and tunneling.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a pressure ulcer on any unspecific area of the back (e.g., thoracic, lumbar, sacral, coccygeal) that has progressed to stage 3. This typically involves visible fat, but not bone, tendon, or muscle. Documentation should specify the stage and location.

• Always confirm the specific anatomical site on the back; if specified, a more precise code should be used.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "stage 3" or describes the characteristics consistent with a stage 3 pressure ulcer.
• Do not use this code if the ulcer is unstageable or if the depth extends to muscle, bone, or tendon (which would indicate stage 4).