ICD-10 Coding for Left Hydronephrosis(N13.2, N13.31)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Left Hydronephrosis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Left Hydronephrosis
N13.0-N13.9Primary Range
Obstructive and reflux uropathy
This range includes codes for hydronephrosis and related obstructive uropathies.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| N13.2 | Hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction | Use when hydronephrosis is due to a renal or ureteral stone. |
|
| N13.31 | Hydronephrosis with ureteral stricture, not elsewhere classified | Use when hydronephrosis is due to a ureteral stricture. |
|
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 left hydronephrosis
Essential facts and insights about Left Hydronephrosis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for left hydronephrosis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of ureteral or renal stone causing obstruction
Applicable To
- Obstructive uropathy due to calculus
Excludes
- Non-obstructive hydronephrosis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing stone and hydronephrosis
- CT: Stone size and location
- Ultrasound: SFU grading
Code-Specific Risks
- Misidentifying the cause of obstruction
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the stone's presence and location.
N13.31 - Hydronephrosis with ureteral stricture, not elsewhere classified
Use when hydronephrosis is due to a ureteral stricture.
Applicable To
- Hydronephrosis due to ureteral stricture
Excludes
- Hydronephrosis due to calculus
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Ureteroscopy confirming stricture
- Imaging showing hydronephrosis
Coding Notes
Document the stricture's location and impact on renal function.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential 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 Left Hydronephrosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N13.2.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to incomplete clinical records., Regulatory: May result in non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the affected side., Use templates that prompt for laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies the cause of hydronephrosis.
Impact
High audit risk when using codes like N13.30 without clear documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Document specific causes and use appropriate codes.
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 Left Hydronephrosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Left Hydronephrosis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Left Hydronephrosis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Urology Progress Note
Specialty: UrologyRequired Elements
- Laterality
- Etiology
- Imaging findings
- Symptoms
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Left Hydronephrosis? Ask your questions below.