Pressure ulcer of head, stage 3

This code signifies a full-thickness skin and tissue loss on the head, extending to subcutaneous fat, but not involving underlying fascia, muscle, tendon, or bone. It presents as a deep crater with or without undermining or tunneling. The wound bed may contain slough or eschar.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a pressure ulcer located on the patient's head (e.g., occiput, temporal region) and explicitly states "stage 3" or describes the characteristic full-thickness tissue loss with visible subcutaneous fat. Supporting documentation should include a wound assessment by a qualified healthcare professional detailing the ulcer's location, depth, and stage.

• Always confirm the anatomical site is specifically the "head" and not another body region.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "stage 3" or provides a clinical description that unequivocally matches stage 3 criteria.
• Do not confuse with unstageable pressure ulcers, which have obscured wound beds due to slough or eschar.