ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Hydroureteronephrosis(N13.72, N13.6)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Hydroureteronephrosis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Hydroureteronephrosis
N13.0-N13.9Primary Range
Obstructive and reflux uropathy
This range includes codes for obstructive uropathy conditions, including bilateral hydroureteronephrosis.
Calculus of kidney and ureter
This range includes codes for ureteral calculi, which can be an underlying cause of hydroureteronephrosis.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| N13.72 | Bilateral obstructive uropathy with hydroureter | Use when bilateral ureteral obstruction is documented with imaging confirmation. |
|
| N13.6 | Pyonephrosis | Use when infection is present with hydronephrosis. |
|
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 hydroureteronephrosis
Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Hydroureteronephrosis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bilateral hydroureteronephrosis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Bilateral ureteral dilation confirmed by imaging
documentation Criteria
- Cause of obstruction clearly documented
Applicable To
- Bilateral ureteral obstruction
- Bilateral ureteral stricture
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing bilateral ureteral dilation
- Documentation of obstruction cause
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect laterality documentation
- Missing cause of obstruction
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'bilateral' and the cause of obstruction.
N13.6 - Pyonephrosis
Use when infection is present with hydronephrosis.
Applicable To
- Infected hydronephrosis
Excludes
- Non-infective hydronephrosis (N13.30)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Urinalysis showing infection
- Imaging showing hydronephrosis with infection signs
Coding Notes
Ensure infection is documented with lab results.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Calculus of ureter
N20.1Differential 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 Hydroureteronephrosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N13.72.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use templates that prompt for cause documentation, Regular training on documentation standards
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential for claim denials due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data collection affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify laterality in documentation and use the correct code.
Impact
Failure to document laterality can lead to incorrect coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory fields in EHR for 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 Bilateral Hydroureteronephrosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bilateral Hydroureteronephrosis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Hydroureteronephrosis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Bilateral hydroureteronephrosis due to ureteral stones
Specialty: UrologyRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Physical examination findings
- Imaging results
- Laboratory results
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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