ICD-10 Coding for Single Kidney(Q60.0, Z90.49)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Single Kidney. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Single Kidney
Q60-Q64Primary Range
Congenital malformations of the urinary system
Includes codes for congenital absence of kidney, which is relevant for unilateral renal agenesis.
Acquired absence of organs, not elsewhere classified
Includes codes for acquired absence of kidney, relevant for post-nephrectomy cases.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q60.0 | Renal agenesis, unilateral | Use when the patient is born with one kidney absent. |
|
| Z90.49 | Acquired absence of other specified parts of urinary tract | Use when the kidney is surgically removed. |
|
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 single kidney
Essential facts and insights about Single Kidney
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for single kidney
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Imaging confirms absence of one kidney since birth.
Applicable To
- Congenital absence of one kidney
Excludes
- Acquired absence of kidney (Z90.49)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging evidence showing absence of one kidney
- Documented history of congenital absence
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with acquired absence if not properly documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies congenital absence to avoid confusion with acquired conditions.
Z90.49 - Acquired absence of other specified parts of urinary tract
Use when the kidney is surgically removed.
Applicable To
- Status post nephrectomy
Excludes
- Congenital absence of kidney (Q60.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Surgical history indicating nephrectomy
- Imaging or surgical reports confirming removal
Coding Notes
Ensure surgical history is documented to support the use of this code.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 1-5/ESRD
N18.xDocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Single Kidney to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code Q60.0.
Impact
Clinical: Misleading clinical picture., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Incorrect billing and reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document etiology in patient notes., Use templates to ensure completeness.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use Z90.49 for post-nephrectomy cases.
Impact
Risk of incorrect coding if absence type is not specified.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of congenital vs. acquired status.
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 Single Kidney, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Single Kidney
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Single Kidney. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Congenital absence with CKD
Specialty: NephrologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Imaging results
- eGFR levels
- CKD stage
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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