ICD-10 Coding for Atrophic Kidney(N26.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Atrophic Kidney. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Atrophic Kidney
N26-N27Primary Range
Other disorders of kidney and ureter
This range includes specific conditions like terminal atrophy of the kidney, which is directly relevant to atrophic kidney.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
CKD stages are often underlying causes of kidney atrophy and should be coded first if applicable.
Obstructive and reflux uropathy
Obstructive uropathy can lead to kidney atrophy and should be coded if identified as the cause.
Hypertensive kidney disease
Hypertensive kidney disease can cause CKD, leading to atrophy, and should be coded first if applicable.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for atrophic kidney
Essential facts and insights about Atrophic Kidney
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for atrophic kidney
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Imaging confirms kidney size <10 cm.
coding Criteria
- Underlying cause of atrophy is documented and coded.
Applicable To
- Atrophy of left kidney
- Atrophy of right kidney
Excludes
- Congenital renal hypoplasia (Q60.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing kidney size <10 cm
- eGFR <15 indicating end-stage renal disease
- Absence of functional renal tissue
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified codes like N28.9 instead of N26.1.
Coding Notes
- Ensure the underlying cause is documented and coded first.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Renal hypoplasia, congenital
Q60.5Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Atrophic Kidney to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N26.1.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on documentation standards., Use templates to ensure completeness.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Poor data quality affecting clinical decision-making.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use N26.1 when atrophy is confirmed.
Impact
Incorrect sequencing of CKD and atrophy codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate coders on proper sequencing rules.
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 Atrophic Kidney, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Atrophic Kidney
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Atrophic Kidney. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bilateral renal atrophy due to CKD
Specialty: NephrologyRequired Elements
- Imaging results
- eGFR values
- Underlying cause
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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