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ICD-10 Coding for Testicular Torsion(N44.00, N44.01, N44.02)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Testicular Torsion. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Twisted TesticleSpermatic Cord Torsion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Testicular Torsion

N44.0-N44.9Primary Range

Noninflammatory disorders of testis

This range includes all codes related to testicular torsion, specifying different types and locations of torsion.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
N44.00Torsion of testis, unspecifiedUse when documentation does not specify the type of torsion.
  • Sudden onset of testicular pain
  • Absent cremasteric reflex
  • High-riding testis
N44.01Extravaginal torsion of testisUse when documentation specifies extravaginal torsion.
  • Twisting above tunica vaginalis
  • Occurs in neonates or infants
N44.02Intravaginal torsion of testisUse when documentation specifies intravaginal torsion.
  • Twisting within tunica vaginalis
  • Horizontal lie of testis

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 testicular torsion

Essential facts and insights about Testicular Torsion

The ICD-10 code for unspecified testicular torsion is N44.00, with specific codes for extravaginal (N44.01) and intravaginal (N44.02) torsion.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for testicular torsion

Torsion of testis, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

documentation Criteria

  • Lack of specific torsion type in documentation

Applicable To

  • Unspecified testicular torsion

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Sudden onset of testicular pain
  • Absent cremasteric reflex
  • High-riding testis

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of undercoding if specific type is documented but not coded.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies if imaging or surgical confirmation is available.

Ancillary Codes

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

Pelvic and perineal pain

R10.2
Use to document associated pain symptoms.

Differential Codes

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

Extravaginal torsion of testis

N44.01
Occurs in neonates and infants, twisting above the tunica vaginalis.

Intravaginal torsion of testis

N44.02
Occurs within the tunica vaginalis, often in adolescents.

Torsion of appendix testis

N44.03
Presence of blue dot sign and focal tenderness.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Testicular Torsion to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N44.00.

Impact

Clinical: May affect treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Include laterality in all documentation, Use templates that prompt for laterality

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Review documentation for specific torsion type and code accordingly.

Impact

Auditors may check for documentation of specific torsion type when specific codes are used.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of torsion type in operative reports.

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 Testicular Torsion, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Testicular Torsion

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Testicular Torsion. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Presentation

Specialty: Urology

Required Elements

  • Patient age
  • Onset of symptoms
  • Physical exam findings
  • Imaging results
  • Surgical findings

Example Documentation

16yo male with sudden left scrotal pain. Exam: high-riding testis, absent cremasteric reflex. Ultrasound: absent flow. OR: 540° intravaginal torsion confirmed.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Testicular torsion reduced.
Good Documentation Example
540° intravaginal torsion reduced via medial-to-lateral rotation. Right testis fixed to dartos with 3-0 Prolene.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on the type of torsion and surgical procedure.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Testicular Torsion? Ask your questions below.

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