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ICD-10 Coding for Overflow Incontinence(N39.490)

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

Also known as:

Chronic Urinary RetentionPost-void Dribbling

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Overflow Incontinence

N39.4-N39.498Primary Range

Other specified urinary incontinence

This range includes codes for various types of urinary incontinence, with N39.490 specifically for overflow incontinence.

Neuromuscular dysfunction of bladder, not elsewhere classified

Relevant for conditions like neurogenic bladder that may cause overflow incontinence.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia

BPH can lead to overflow incontinence, requiring secondary coding.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for overflow incontinence

Essential facts and insights about Overflow Incontinence

The ICD-10 code for overflow incontinence is N39.490, used when clinical evidence supports this diagnosis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for overflow incontinence

Overflow incontinence
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Post-void residual >200mL confirmed by bladder scan

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed note specifying overflow incontinence symptoms and underlying causes

Applicable To

  • Post-void dribbling
  • Chronic urinary retention

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Post-void residual >200mL
  • Urodynamic studies showing detrusor underactivity

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if documentation is insufficient
  • Potential undercoding if secondary causes are not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies overflow incontinence with supporting clinical evidence.

Ancillary Codes

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

Neuromuscular dysfunction of bladder, not elsewhere classified

N31.1
Use when overflow incontinence is due to neurogenic bladder.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia with lower urinary tract symptoms

N40.1
Use when overflow incontinence is due to BPH.

Differential Codes

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

Unspecified urinary incontinence

R32
Use R32 only when the type of incontinence is not specified and clinical evidence is ambiguous.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Overflow Incontinence to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N39.490.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on specific documentation requirements., Use templates to ensure comprehensive notes.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies overflow incontinence with clinical evidence.

Impact

Risk of audits due to incorrect or unspecified incontinence coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation and correct code selection.

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 Overflow Incontinence, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Overflow Incontinence

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

Overflow incontinence due to neurogenic bladder

Specialty: Urology

Required Elements

  • Chief complaint
  • History of present illness
  • Physical exam findings
  • Post-void residual measurements
  • Urodynamic study results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with constant dribbling and inability to fully empty bladder. PVR 450mL confirmed. Urodynamics show detrusor underactivity. Diagnosis: Overflow incontinence due to neurogenic bladder.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has urinary incontinence.
Good Documentation Example
Patient has overflow incontinence with PVR 450mL and detrusor underactivity.
Explanation
The good example provides specific type of incontinence and supporting clinical evidence.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Overflow Incontinence? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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