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ICD-10 Coding for Bladder Calculus(N21.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bladder Calculus. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Bladder StoneVesical Calculus

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bladder Calculus

N20-N23Primary Range

Urolithiasis

This range includes codes for stones in the urinary tract, with N21.0 specifically for bladder calculus.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for bladder calculus

Essential facts and insights about Bladder Calculus

The ICD-10 code for bladder calculus is N21.0, used when confirmed by imaging and symptoms are present.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for bladder calculus

Calculus in bladder
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of bladder stone confirmed by imaging

coding Criteria

  • No hydronephrosis present

documentation Criteria

  • Stone size and symptoms documented

Applicable To

  • Bladder stone

Excludes

  • Hydronephrosis with calculus obstruction (N13.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation (CT/KUB)
  • Symptoms such as dysuria or hematuria

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use if hydronephrosis is present, which requires N13.2

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies stone size and location for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Hematuria, unspecified

R31.9
Use when hematuria is present as a symptom.

Urinary tract infection, site not specified

N39.0
Use if a UTI is present alongside the bladder stone.

Pain localized to other parts of lower abdomen

R10.3
Use if pelvic pain is documented.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Kidney calculus

N20.0
Use N20.0 for stones located in the kidney.

Ureteral calculus

N20.1
Use N20.1 for stones located in the ureter.

Hydronephrosis with calculus obstruction

N13.2
Use N13.2 if hydronephrosis is present with obstruction.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bladder Calculus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N21.0.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential coding audits., Financial: Incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging reports include stone size., Verify documentation before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may affect reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use N21.0 unless imaging shows renal dilation.

Impact

Incorrect CPT code selection based on incomplete documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all documentation elements are complete before coding.

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 Bladder Calculus, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Bladder Calculus

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bladder Calculus. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Bladder calculus with symptoms

Specialty: Urology

Required Elements

  • Chief complaint
  • Imaging results
  • Stone size
  • Symptoms

Example Documentation

Patient presents with dysuria and hematuria. CT scan reveals a 3 cm bladder stone. Plan for litholapaxy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Bladder stone present.
Good Documentation Example
CT confirms a 3 cm bladder stone causing dysuria and hematuria. Litholapaxy planned.
Explanation
The good example specifies stone size, symptoms, and planned treatment, ensuring complete documentation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bladder Calculus? Ask your questions below.

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