ICD-10 Coding for Renal Stones(N20.0, N20.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Renal Stones. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Renal Stones
N20-N23Primary Range
Calculus of kidney and ureter
This range includes all codes related to stones in the kidney and ureter, which are the primary focus for renal stones.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| N20.0 | Calculus of kidney | Use when a stone is confirmed in the kidney via imaging. |
|
| N20.1 | Calculus of ureter | Use when a stone is confirmed in the ureter via imaging. |
|
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 kidney stones
Essential facts and insights about Renal Stones
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for renal stones
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed renal calculus on imaging
Applicable To
- Renal calculus
- Stone in renal pelvis
Excludes
- Hydronephrosis with calculus obstruction (N13.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation of renal calculus
- Symptoms such as hematuria or flank pain
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if hydronephrosis is present
Coding Notes
- Ensure imaging confirms the stone's location before coding.
N20.1 - Calculus of ureter
Use when a stone is confirmed in the ureter via imaging.
Applicable To
- Ureteral calculus
Excludes
- Hydronephrosis with calculus obstruction (N13.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation of ureteral calculus
- Symptoms such as renal colic
Coding Notes
Ensure imaging confirms the stone's location before coding.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Renal Stones to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N20.0.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify imaging results before coding., Educate staff on documentation standards.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data recording.
Mitigation Strategy
Only use N13.2 if hydronephrosis is confirmed by imaging.
Impact
Using N13.2 without confirmed hydronephrosis.
Mitigation Strategy
Require imaging confirmation 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 Renal Stones, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Renal Stones
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Renal Stones. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Patient with confirmed ureteral stone
Specialty: UrologyRequired Elements
- Patient symptoms
- Imaging results
- Stone size and location
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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