ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Flank Pain(R10.11, R10.12)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Flank Pain. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Flank Pain
R10.1-R10.2Primary Range
Pain localized to upper abdomen
This range includes codes for specific abdominal pain locations, including flank pain.
Calculus of kidney and ureter
This range includes codes for conditions like kidney stones, which can cause 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| R10.11 | Right upper quadrant pain | Use when the patient has documented right flank pain. |
|
| R10.12 | Left upper quadrant pain | Use when the patient has documented left 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 bilateral flank pain
Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Flank Pain
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bilateral flank pain
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Right flank pain must be explicitly documented.
Applicable To
- Right flank pain
Excludes
- Pain in right lower quadrant (R10.31)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented right flank pain
- Physical exam showing tenderness in right flank
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if laterality is not specified
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
R10.12 - Left upper quadrant pain
Use when the patient has documented left flank pain.
Applicable To
- Left flank pain
Excludes
- Pain in left lower quadrant (R10.32)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented left flank pain
- Physical exam showing tenderness in left flank
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.
Renal colic
N23Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bilateral Flank Pain to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R10.11.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on importance of documenting laterality., Use templates that prompt for laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use R10.11 and R10.12 for documented bilateral flank pain.
Impact
Failure to document laterality can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement documentation checks and training.
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 Bilateral Flank Pain, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bilateral Flank Pain
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Flank Pain. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute bilateral flank pain
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Physical examination findings
- Imaging results
- Pain characteristics
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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