Pressure-induced deep tissue damage of left ankle

This code signifies a severe form of pressure injury affecting the left ankle, characterized by damage to underlying soft tissue (muscle, bone, tendon) without an open wound. The skin may appear intact, discolored (purple or maroon), or a blood-filled blister may be present, indicating deep tissue necrosis.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates deep tissue damage of the left ankle due to sustained pressure, even if the skin is unbroken. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical assessment of skin color changes, bogginess, or firmness compared to surrounding tissue, often following prolonged immobility or pressure.

• Requires physician documentation of "deep tissue injury," "DTI," or "suspected deep tissue injury" of the left ankle.
• Do not use for open pressure ulcers; those require codes from L89.520-L89.525.
• Sequence as a primary diagnosis if it's the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's a co-morbidity.