Pressure ulcer of unspecified heel, stage 3

This code signifies a full-thickness skin and tissue loss on an unspecified heel, where subcutaneous fat may be visible, but bone, tendon, or muscle are not exposed. It indicates the presence of slough and/or eschar may obscure the depth of tissue loss, but the ulcer is at least stage 3.

Apply this code when documentation clearly identifies a pressure ulcer located on either the left or right heel, and the ulcer has progressed to stage 3. Supporting documentation should detail the depth of tissue loss, presence of subcutaneous fat, and absence of exposed bone/tendon/muscle.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "unspecified heel" or does not specify left/right. If left or right is documented, use the more specific code.
• Verify the ulcer depth aligns with stage 3 criteria; do not code stage 3 if bone, tendon, or muscle are exposed (that would be stage 4).
• Always sequence this code after any underlying condition causing the pressure ulcer (e.g., immobility, diabetes with neurological complications).