ICD-10 Coding for Hydroureteronephrosis(N13.32, N13.6)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Hydroureteronephrosis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Hydroureteronephrosis
N13.0-N13.9Primary Range
Obstructive and reflux uropathy
This range includes codes for various types of obstructive uropathy, including hydroureteronephrosis.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| N13.32 | Calculus obstruction of ureter | Use when a ureteral stone causes obstruction and hydronephrosis is present. |
|
| N13.6 | Pyonephrosis | Use when infection is present with hydronephrosis. |
|
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 hydroureteronephrosis
Essential facts and insights about Hydroureteronephrosis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hydroureteronephrosis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of ureteral stone and hydronephrosis
Applicable To
- Ureteral stone causing obstruction
Excludes
- N20.0 (Calculus of kidney)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT showing stone
- Ultrasound showing hydronephrosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding without hydronephrosis documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure hydronephrosis is documented; do not use with N20.0.
N13.6 - Pyonephrosis
Use when infection is present with hydronephrosis.
Applicable To
- Infection of the kidney with pus formation
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive urine culture
- Fever and leukocytosis
Coding Notes
Document the organism causing the infection.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Unspecified Escherichia coli [E. coli] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
B96.20Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hydroureteronephrosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N13.32.
Impact
Clinical: Impacts treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document right, left, or bilateral involvement.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Violates ICD-10 Excludes1 note., Data Quality: Leads to inaccurate clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use N13.2 alone when hydronephrosis is due to a stone.
Impact
Using unspecified codes like N13.30 can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation to support specific 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 Hydroureteronephrosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Hydroureteronephrosis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Hydroureteronephrosis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Urology Consultation
Specialty: UrologyRequired Elements
- Imaging findings
- Infection status
- Stone size and location
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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