ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Nephrolithiasis(N20.2, N13.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Nephrolithiasis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Nephrolithiasis
N20-N23Primary Range
Calculus of kidney and ureter
This range includes codes for kidney and ureteral stones, which are relevant for documenting bilateral nephrolithiasis.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| N20.2 | Calculus of kidney and ureter, bilateral | Use when stones are present in both kidneys or ureters without hydronephrosis. |
|
| N13.2 | Hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction | Use when hydronephrosis is present with obstructing stones. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for bilateral nephrolithiasis
Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Nephrolithiasis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bilateral nephrolithiasis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Stones in both kidneys/ureters without hydronephrosis
Applicable To
- Bilateral kidney stones without hydronephrosis
Excludes
- Hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction (N13.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT imaging showing stones in both kidneys/ureters without hydronephrosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using this code when hydronephrosis is present.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies bilateral stones without hydronephrosis.
N13.2 - Hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction
Use when hydronephrosis is present with obstructing stones.
Applicable To
- Obstructing stones with hydronephrosis
Excludes
- Non-obstructing stones (N20.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing hydronephrosis with obstructing stones
Coding Notes
Document hydronephrosis and obstruction clearly.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Calculus in urethra
N21.1Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bilateral Nephrolithiasis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N20.2.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient condition., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Denied claims due to incorrect coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Always review imaging for hydronephrosis., Clarify with provider if documentation is unclear.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use N13.2 if hydronephrosis is documented.
Impact
Incorrect coding of hydronephrosis with stones.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure clear documentation of hydronephrosis and obstruction.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Bilateral Nephrolithiasis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bilateral Nephrolithiasis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Nephrolithiasis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bilateral nephrolithiasis without hydronephrosis
Specialty: UrologyRequired Elements
- Imaging results
- Stone size and location
- Absence of hydronephrosis
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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