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ICD-10 Coding for Shadowing at the Kidney(R93.42, N20.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Shadowing at the Kidney. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Renal Acoustic ShadowingKidney Shadowing

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Shadowing at the Kidney

R93.4Primary Range

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of urinary organs

This range includes codes for abnormal imaging findings related to the kidneys, including shadowing.

Calculus of kidney and ureter

This range includes codes for kidney stones, which may be associated with shadowing findings.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R93.42Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of kidneyUse when imaging shows shadowing without confirmed diagnosis.
  • Imaging report confirming shadowing
  • Documentation of shadow width and laterality
N20.0Calculus of kidneyUse when shadowing is confirmed to be due to a kidney stone.
  • Imaging confirming stone presence
  • Symptoms such as flank pain or hematuria

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 shadowing

Essential facts and insights about Shadowing at the Kidney

The ICD-10 code for kidney shadowing is R93.42, used for abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of the kidney.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for shadowing at the kidney

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of kidney
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows shadowing without confirmed pathology.

documentation Criteria

  • Shadow width and laterality documented.

Applicable To

  • Posterior acoustic shadowing of kidney

Excludes

  • Confirmed kidney stone (N20.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging report confirming shadowing
  • Documentation of shadow width and laterality

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect laterality coding
  • Missing documentation of shadow characteristics

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of right kidney

R93.421
Use when shadowing is specifically noted in the right kidney.

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of left kidney

R93.422
Use when shadowing is specifically noted in the left kidney.

Differential Codes

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

Calculus of kidney

N20.0
Use if shadowing is confirmed to be due to a kidney stone.

Abnormal findings on diagnostic imaging of kidney

R93.42
Use if shadowing is present without confirmed stone.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Shadowing at the Kidney to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R93.42.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect diagnosis., Regulatory: Could trigger audits., Financial: Affects reimbursement accuracy.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on documentation standards., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: May affect DRG assignment and reimbursement., Compliance: Could lead to audit issues., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure correct laterality code (R93.421 or R93.422) is used.

Impact

Incorrect laterality coding can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies laterality.

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 Shadowing at the Kidney, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Shadowing at the Kidney

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Shadowing at the Kidney. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Imaging report for kidney shadowing

Specialty: Radiology

Required Elements

  • Shadow width
  • Laterality
  • Associated findings

Example Documentation

Ultrasound shows 7mm posterior acoustic shadow in right kidney.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Shadowing noted in kidney.
Good Documentation Example
7mm posterior acoustic shadow in right kidney.
Explanation
Specifies shadow size and laterality, improving clarity.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Shadowing at the Kidney? Ask your questions below.

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