Pressure ulcer of unspecified buttock, unstageable

This code signifies a pressure-induced skin and tissue injury located on an unspecified buttock, where the full extent of tissue damage cannot be determined due to obscuring factors like eschar or slough. It indicates a severe ulcer where the base is not visible for staging.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a pressure ulcer on either buttock, and the depth cannot be assessed due to necrotic tissue (eschar) or devitalized tissue (slough). Supporting documentation must explicitly mention "unstageable" or describe conditions preventing accurate staging.

• Ensure documentation specifies "unstageable" or describes non-removable eschar/slough covering the wound bed.
• Do not use this code if the ulcer is debrided and a stage can be determined; instead, code to the appropriate stage.
• This code is for an unspecified buttock; if the laterality (left or right) is documented, use the more specific L89.310 or L89.320.