Varicose veins of lower extremities with ulcer

This code signifies the presence of varicose veins specifically located in the lower extremities, which have progressed to include ulceration of the skin. It indicates a chronic venous insufficiency leading to tissue breakdown.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states varicose veins of the leg(s) are complicated by an open sore or ulcer. This typically occurs in patients with long-standing venous stasis. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing the presence of both varicose veins and an ulcer, often with descriptions of the ulcer's location and characteristics.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the ulcer to the varicose veins; otherwise, a separate code for the ulcer may be more appropriate.
• Do not use this code if the ulcer is due to arterial insufficiency, diabetes, or other non-venous causes.
• Consider additional codes for any associated complications, such as infection of the ulcer.