Pressure ulcer of left hip, stage 3

This code signifies a full-thickness skin and tissue loss on the left hip, extending through the dermis and into the subcutaneous tissue. It presents as a deep crater with visible adipose tissue, but bone, tendon, or muscle are not yet exposed. Slough and/or eschar may be present, but do not obscure the depth of tissue loss.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a Stage 3 pressure ulcer located on the patient's left hip. This diagnosis is typically supported by physical examination findings detailing the depth of tissue damage, presence of subcutaneous fat, and absence of exposed deeper structures.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "left hip" and "Stage 3" for accurate assignment.
• Differentiate from unstageable pressure ulcers where the depth is obscured by slough or eschar.
• Always code any associated infections or complications separately.