ICD-10 Coding for Right Flank Pain(R10.89, N20.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Right Flank Pain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Right Flank Pain
R10.8-R10.9Primary Range
Other and unspecified abdominal pain
This range includes codes for abdominal pain that is not specified to a particular quadrant, including flank pain.
Calculus of kidney and ureter
This range includes codes for kidney stones, which can cause right flank pain.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R10.89 | Other specified abdominal pain | Use when right flank pain is documented without a specific underlying cause. |
|
| N20.0 | Calculus of kidney | Use when a kidney stone is confirmed as the cause of right flank pain. |
|
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 right flank pain
Essential facts and insights about Right Flank Pain
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for right flank pain
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Pain localized to the right flank without specific diagnosis
Applicable To
- Right flank pain
Excludes
- Pain due to kidney stone (N20.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented right flank pain without specific diagnosis
- No definitive imaging findings
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of undercoding if a specific cause is identified later
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the flank as the site of pain.
N20.0 - Calculus of kidney
Use when a kidney stone is confirmed as the cause of right flank pain.
Applicable To
- Kidney stone
Excludes
- Pain without confirmed stone (R10.89)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirms kidney stone
- Urinalysis shows hematuria
Coding Notes
Ensure imaging confirms the presence of a stone.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Right upper quadrant pain
R10.11Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Right Flank Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R10.89.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Could affect reimbursement rates.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific anatomical terms, Document associated symptoms
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data representation of patient condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Use R10.89 when flank is specified.
Impact
Using non-specific codes for flank pain.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies flank location.
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 Right Flank Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Right Flank Pain
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Right Flank Pain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Location of pain
- Severity and quality
- Associated symptoms
- Physical exam findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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